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ESSENTIALS OF 
PHARMACY 

t 


Vy 

J. G. MORRIS AND 
F. E. WILLIAMS 

MACON, GA. 



THE ]. W. BURKE COMPANY 
PRINTERS 
1921 



Copyrighted 1921 
BY 

Joe G. Morris and 
Frank E. Williams 



JUL 11 1221 



©C1.A617794 



ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


LECTURE No. 1 

Pharmacy is the art of preparing drugs in a form suitable for 
use as remedial agents. 

Pharmacy is divided into two classes, Theoretical and Practical. 

Practical Pharmacy treats of the methods, processes and opera¬ 
tions in applying Theoretical Pharmacy. 

Theoretical Pharmacy treats of the knowledge of the substances 
from the mineral, vegetable, and animal kingdoms. 

Toxicology is the study of poisons, their source, chemical com¬ 
position, actions and antidotes. 

LECTURE No. 2 

Oleoresins are mixtures of oils and resins obtained from plants. 
Those obtained direct from the plants are called natural ole¬ 
oresins, and those made by percolating the drug with ether or 
alcohol are called prepared or pharmaceutical oleoresins, ex ole- 
oresin aspidium. 

Ether is used as a solvent for five U. S. P. Oleoresins. They are: 
Aspidium, Capsicum, Ginger, Liquid Apiol, and Black Pepper. 
Alcohol is used as a solvent for Oleoresin Cubeb. Oleoresin Tur¬ 
pentine and Copaiba are natural Oleoresins. 

Oleoresin of Cubeb deposits on standing a substance which 
should be rejected before using, only the liquid portion being used. 

Oleoresin of Aspidium deposits on standing a precipitate called 
Filic Acid, which is the active principle, and it should be thor¬ 
oughly mixed before using. It is often called Extractum Filicis 
and is used for tape worms in 30 gr. doses, once daily. 

Acetone was formerly used as a solvent for Oleoresins, but was 
replaced by ether in the U. S. P. ix. 

Alkaloids: Their English names end in “ine” and their Latin 
names end in “ina.” They are the active principles of plants and 



4 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


are called chemically vegetable “Alkalies.” They are composed of 
Carbon, Hydrogen, and Oxygen, and a distinctive feature is that 
they contain Nitrogen. They have an Alkaline reaction and unite 
with Acids to form their corresponding salts. In solution they 
will turn Red Litmus paper Blue. Their salts are more soluble 
than the Alkaloids themselves. Solid Alkaloids are called Amides. 
Example: Quinine, Morphine. Liquid Alkaloids are called Amines. 
Example: Sparteine. 

Volatile Oils are also called Essential Oils, former because they 
will vaporize, and the latter because when dissolved in Alcohol a 
class of preparations called essences or spirits are formed. They 
are fresh colorless but on standing acquire various colors and 
odors. They are obtained from various parts of plants and usually 
constitute the odorous principle. When pure they will volatilize 
without leaving a greasy spot on paper. They are usually pre¬ 
pared by distillation or expression, but we have two made by 
macerating the drug in water and then distilling. Oils of Mustard 
and Bitter Almond. 

Volatile Oils consist of two principles: Liquid Principle called 
Eleoptein and the Solid called Stearoptein or Camphors. 


LECTURE No. 3 

Balsams are gummy exudations from plants and must contain 
Benzoic or Cinnamic Acids. The true Balsams are Tolu and Peru, 
while Storax is an Oleoresinous Balsam. 

Gums are exudations from plants and are distinguished from 
other products by being soluble in water. Example, Acacia. 

Comminution is the process of powdering drugs by grinding. 

Dessication is depriving drugs of their moisture by the aid of 
heat. 

Cerates are a class of preparations for external use, having 
wax as a base. Three officials: Simple, Rosin, and Cantharidal. 

Ointments are fatty preparations intended for external use, 
also sometimes contain wax, but they are softer than Cerates. 
20 Official. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 5 

Cataplasma is the same as poultice. Example, Cataplasma 
Kaolini. 

Antiseptics are drugs which stop putnfaction. Ex., Phenol, 
Bichloride. 

Disinfectants are drugs which destroy germs. Ex., Formalde¬ 
hyde. 

Anthelmintics are drugs which destroy intestinal worms. Ex., 
Santonin. 

Taeniafuge, also called Taeniacides, are drugs which destroy 
tapeworms. 

Diaphoretics are drugs which produce perspiration. Ex., Dover’s 
Powders. 

Antiperiodics are drugs which prevent the return of diseases. 
Ex., Quinine. 

Styptics are drugs which stop bleeding. Ex., Tr. Ferri Chlor. 

Sialogegves are drugs which produce saliva. Ex., Pilocarpus, 
Mustard, and Ginger. 

Refrigerants are drugs which are cooling and relieve thirst. 
Ex., Veg. Acids. 

Myotics are drugs which contract the pupil of the eye. Ex., 
Physostigmine. 

Alydriatics are agents which dilate the pupil of the eye. Ex., 
Atropine. 

Cardiac Stimulants are drugs which increase the action of the 
heart. Ex., Adrenalin, Alcohol, Atropine. 

Cardiac Depressants are drugs which decrease the action of 
the heart. Ex., Chloral. 

Distillation is the vaporation and condensation of a liquid. 

Chemistry is that branch of science which treats of the changes 
within the Molecule. 

Chemistry is divided into two Classes: Organic and Inorganic. 

Organic Chemistry treats of the Carbon Compounds or Organic 
substances or usually those from the vegetable and animal king¬ 
doms. 

Inorganic Chemistry treats of the metals and their compounds 
or those not containing carbon. It is divided into two groups: 


6 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


The Metals and their compounds, ex., Zinc, Iron, and Lead; and 
the Non-Metals, such as Hydrogen, Oxygen, Iodine, and Phos¬ 
phorous. 

Molecule is the smallest particle of matter that can exist in a 
free state. 

Atom is a particle so small that it can undergo no further sub¬ 
division in chemical transformation. 

Physics is that branch of science that treats of the changes 
that take place on the outside of the molecule, or the change 
which matter undergoes without loosing its chemical identity. 


LECTURE No. 4 

Pharmacology is the study of crude drugs. 

Fractional Distillation is distilling liquids having different boil¬ 
ing points. Example, Making Guaiacol. 

Destructive Distillation is heating dry organic matter in a still 
until all volatile products are driven off. Ex., Acetic Acid, Wood 
Alcohol. 

Emetics are drugs which produce vomiting. Ex., Apomorphine. 

Detergents are drugs which are cleansing to wounds. 

Hepatics are drugs which act on the liver. Ex., Dil Nitre Hy¬ 
drochloric Acid. 

Soinnifacients are drugs which produce sleep. Ex., Trional. 

Sudorifics are drugs which produce sweat. Ex., Pilocarpus. 

Galactophyga are agents which diminish the secretion of milk. 
Ex., Belladonna. 

Hemostatics are drugs which stop hemorrhages. Ex., Calcium 
Lactate. 

Irritants are drugs when applied to the skin cause vascular 
excitement. Ex., Mustard Plaster. 

Vesicants are drugs which cause blisters. Ex., Cantharides. 

Rubefacients are drugs which cause redness of the skin. Ex., 
Oil Turpentine. 

Epispastics are drugs which cause blisters. Ex., Iodine. 

Purgatives are drugs which cause the bowels to move. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 7 

Laxatives are drugs which gently increase the action of the 
bowels. 

Hydrogogue Cathartics are drugs which produce watery stools. 
Ex., Elaterium. 

Cholagogue Cathartics are drugs that increase the action of 
bile. Ex., Podophy. 

Aphrodisiacs are drugs which increase sexual desire. Ex., 
Strychnine, Phosp. 

Anaphrodisiacs are drugs which lessen sexual desire. Ex., Bro¬ 
mides, Camphor last. 

Emmenagogues are drugs which restore the menstrual flow. 
Ex., Ergot Savin. 

Ecbolics and Oxytocics are drugs which hasten childbirth or 
abortion. 

Parturients are drugs used in labor cases. 

Maceration is the process of soaking a drug in a solvent until 
the soluble portions are dissolved or softened. 

Percolation is the process of placing a drug in a suitable vessel 
called a percolator, and is deprived of its soluble and active con¬ 
stituents by the downward flow of a solvent through it. 

Solvents called Menstrums are liquids capable of dissolving or 
holding another substance in solution. The most important ones 
are Water Alcohol, Glycerin, Dilute Alcohol, and Ether, in the 
order named. 

Trituation is the process of reducing substances to fine particles 
by the aid of Mortar and Pestle. 

Sublimation is the distillation of volatile solids. 

Pharmacology is the study of crude drugs. 

LECTURE No. 5 

The Pharmacopoeia is a book containing a list of medical sub¬ 
stances with descriptions, tests and formulas for preparing, 
selected by authority. It is revised every ten years by a com¬ 
mittee composed of M. D.’s and Ph. G.’s. It is published in English 
with the exception of the names of drugs and Latin is used for 


8 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


that, as it is the Language of Science and never changes. It is 
also published in the Spanish language to be used in Cuba and 
the Philippines. 

All Potent Tinctures are ten per cent strength. The word 
Official is the same as U. S. P. lx, and means that it is in the 
U. S. P. 

Protocol International, written P. I., has reference to certain 
drugs and medicines which was standardized at the international 
conference which was held at Brussels in 1902 for the unification 
of potent remedies. In 1916 sixteen governments met and signed 
these agreements, the United States being the first to adopt some 
of them. 

The term “Purity Rubric” in the U. S. P. is a term used to 
limit the amount of impurities in chemicals by testing the amount 
of fuse substance which must be present. 

A Dispensatory is a book which comments on the U. S. P. The 
U. S. and the National are the most popular ones. 

Posology is the science of doses; the U. S. P. furnishes the aver¬ 
age or usual dose. 

Metrology is the science of measure and the relation which 
measure bears to weight. The Metric System is the only system 
recognized by the U. S. P., yet they furnish the dose in the 
Apothecary and Metric. 

For Prescription writing the old-fashioned Apothecary System 
is still in use, but is not official. The table follows: 

Twenty grains make one scruple, three scruples make one 
drachm, eight drachms make one ounce, and twelve ounces make 
one pound. 

You will-see there are 5,760 grains in one pound in this system. 
Now the goods sold by the manufacturers and wholesalers are 
sold by Avoirdupois weight, and the table follows: 

437.5 grains in one ounce, 16 ounces in one pound, or 7,000 
grains. One fluid ounce of water weighs 454.6 grains at a tem¬ 
perature of 25 degrees centigrade. One gallon of water weighs 
8.33 pounds at 25 degrees c. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


9 


The Apothecaries' Fluid Measure or U. S. Wine Measure is as 
follows: Sixty minims equal one fluid drachm, eight fluid drachms 
equal one fluid ounce, sixteen fluid ounces equal one pint, and eight 
pints equal one gallon. In writing directions, the M. D. uses the 
following: One fluid drachm equals one teaspoonful, two fluid 
drachms equal one dessertspoonful, four fluid drachms equal one 
tablespoonful, and four fluid ounces one gill or teacupful, and 
eight fluid ounces one tumblerful. 

O is the abbreviation for the Latin Octarious, meaning Pint. 

Cong, is the abbreviation for the Latin Congius, meaning 
Gallon. 

Gtt. is the abbreviation for the Latin Gutta, meaning Drop. 

In the Metric System the Meter is the unit of length and is 
39.70 in. 

The Liter is the unit of capacity and is 33.8147 ounces or 1,000 
mils or about two pints.. 

Gramme is the unit of weight and is equal to 15.432 grains. 

Remember what you weigh is what you call Grammes and what 
you pour, or the liquids, is called mills. 

Thirty mils, is equal to one ounce. 

.065 read 65 millegrammes, abbreviated Gm., is equal to one 
grain. 

The secwidary units which indicate smaller are in Latin and 
abbreviated in smaTTletters. They are as follows: Milli equals 
1/1000, Centi equals 1/100, and Deci equals 1/10, and the second¬ 
ary units which indicate large are in Greek and abbreviated in 
Capital letters: Deka is ten, Hecto is hundred, and Kilo is thou¬ 
sand, and Myria is ten thousand. The latter are not in use in 
the U. S. P. 

King’s Dispensatory is a private work used by the Eclectic 
School of Medicine. 

Galenical Preparations are those where no chemical change 
takes place in their manufacture. 

Aquas, or waters, are aqueous preparations of volatile sub¬ 
stances. 


10 ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 

Liquors , or solutions, are aqueous preparations of non-volatile 
substances. 

Syrups are concentrated solutions of sugar and water contain¬ 
ing medical substances. 

Mixtures are aqueous preparations intended for internal use, 
containing insoluble suspended substances. 

Glycerites are mixtures of medical substances in Glycerin. 

Spirits are alcoholic solutions of volatile substances. 

Tinctures are alcoholic solutions of non volatile substances. 

Infusions are liquid preparations made by treating the drug 
with either hot or cold water. 

Extracts are solid or semi-solid preparations made by evaporat¬ 
ing solutions of medical substances. 

Fluid Extracts are liquid alcoholic preparations made by per¬ 
colating the drug with a menstrum, concentrating the portion of 
the percolate so that in each case one mil of the fluid extract will 
represent the gramme of the drug. They are of uniform and 
definite strength. 


LECTURE No. 6 

Materia Medica is that branch of science which treats of the 
remedies used in the treatment of disease. 

Animal Drugs are divided into three classes. The first is the 
Mammalia, which is the highest class and include those which 
suckle their young. 

The Pisces , or fish class, is second and drugs from this class 
include cod liver oil, etc., and the third class is the Insecta, or 
insect class, such as Spanish flies and cockroach. 

Coccus is Cochineal, called red scale insect. It is the dried 
female insect of Coccus Cacti, inclosing their young larvae. 

These insects are gathered by brushing from the trees and 
killing with heat. They are found in Mexico and cultivated on a 
large scale. They have no medical value but owe their virtue to 
the carminic acid which is a coloring agent and present from six 
to ten per cent; carmine is made from it. Cochineal enters into 
Tr. Cardamon Co. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 11 

Blatta is Cockroach, not U. S. P. Was used as a diuretic in 
five-grain dose. 

Hiruda is Leach. The best variety comes from Europe. They 
are kept in vessels containing charcoal. They have three jaws 
and two rows of fine, sharp teeth. One is capable of extracting 
from one to three teaspoonfuls of blood. 

Spongia is Sponge. What we see is only the framework of the 
animal. It is used in surgery for mopping blood. 

Spongia Decolor ate is in the N. F. Made by bleaching the 
sponge with Permanganate, Potash, Sodium, Disulphonate, Hy¬ 
drochloric Acid, and Bicarb. Soda. 

Ossepia is Cuttlefish Bone. 

Cantharis is Cantharides, called Spanish Flies, Russian Flies, 
and Blister Beetle. It is the dried beetle Cantharis Vesicatoria, 
thoroughly dried, yielding not less than .6 or more Cantharidin. 
They are bronze green in color and about one inch in length. 
They live in Spain, Russia and Southern Europe. They are col¬ 
lected by shaking off the trees and killing with hot water. They 
are preserved by the addition of a few drops of Chloroform from 
time to time to prevent insects. They should not have a strong 
Ammonia odor; if so, do not use. The active constituent is 
Cantharidin. The dose is one-half grain. They are used inter¬ 
nally and externally and said to have aphrodisiac qualities but at 
the last. They produce blisters when applied to the skin. The 
Official preparations are: Tinct. Cerate, and Collodion. 

Cantharidin is a white substance in the form of white crystaline 
scales. It is odorless and tasteless, almost insoluble in water or 
cold alcohol. The British recognize Cantharidin from any beetle, 
Malabris Checori, but the U. S. P. does not. 

Suprarenalum Siccum is Dried Suprarenal. It is the supra¬ 
renal gland of animals which are used for food by man. It is 
cleaned, freed from fat, dried and powdered. It contains not less 
than .6% Epinephrine, which is the active constituent. One part 
of the dried gland represents six parts of the fresh gland. Dose 
is four grains. Epinephrine is about the same as adrenalin. 

Adrenalin is nearly white to a brown powder, slightly soluble 


12 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


in water, almost insoluble in alcohol. It is the most powerful 
hemostatic known and is generally used in the form of a solution 
made from the chloride in 1/1000 solution. It is used in the 
sudden failure of circulation and cannot be surpassed. Dose of 
the solution is 5 to 10 minims. 

Thyroideum Siccum, Dried Thyroids. It is dried Thyroin of 
the animals which are used for food by man. These glands are 
situated in the neck of the animal and are prepared by removing 
the fat and connective tissue, treating with petroleum benzine, 
powdering and drying. The active constituent is 17/100% Iodine 
in thyroid combination. It is used in wasting disease, which is a 
tropical disorder. The dose is one and one-half grains. One part 
of the dried gland represents five parts of the fresh gland. 

Hypophysis Sicca, Dessicated Hypophysis. Dried Pituitary 
Body. It is the posterior lobe obtained from the pituitary body of 
cattle, cleaned, dried and powdered. The posterior lobe is situated 
at the base of the brain. It is a small two-lobed body and the 
smaller is the one used. The anterior, which is the larger, is not 
used in medicine, and is the one which is essential to life. The 
smaller lobe contains an active principle called Pituitrin, which 
has marked effects on blood vessels. Hypophysis Sicca is a yellow 
or greyish amorphous powder, having a peculiar odor. The dose 
is one-half grain. It is partially soluble in water. 

Liquor Hypophysis is Solution Hypophysis called Solution 
Pituitary Body. It is a solution containing the water soluble prin¬ 
ciples of the fresh posterior lobe of the pituitary body of cattle. 
It is made by extracting the finely minced material with slightly 
acidulated water, boiled for ten minutes and filter, sterilize this 
filterate and preserve in a sterile condition. It is prepared from 
the dried as it has more definite strength. The dose is fifteen 
minims. It is a transparent liquid, colorless or nearly so, having 
a characteristic odor. The U. S. Hygenic Laboratory states that 
one mil. of solution diluted 20,000 times has the same activity on 
the isolated uterus of the virgin guinea-pig as a l-to-20,000,000 
solution beta-iminazolyl-ethylamine hydrochloride. 

Idiosyncrasy is the peculiarity of individual temperament. It is 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


13 


the term used to note the effects of drug's on different people. 
That is, some people break out when taking quinine. 

Soporifics are drugs which produce sleep. The Bromides, as ex¬ 
amples. 

Escharotics are the same as caustics; they destroy tissue. 

Demulcents are drugs which are soothing. Ex., Flaxseed. 

Analgesics are drugs which relieve pain. 

Anhidrotics are drugs which check perspiration. Ex., Bella¬ 
donna. 

Carminatives are drugs which aid in the expulsion of gases 
from the stomach. Asafoetida. 

Antizymotics are drugs that stop fermentation. 

Errhins, also called Sternutatories, are drugs which produce 
sneezing. 

Vulnerary Drugs are those which are healing to wounds. 

Mel is honey. It is a saccarine secretion deposited in the honey¬ 
comb by the bee (Apis Mellifera). 

Mel Depuratum is clarified honey, made by heating honey, pre¬ 
viously mixing with 2% paper pulp on a water bath, removing the 
scum as it arises and making up the loss by the addition of water 
and adding 5% glycerin. It enters into Mercury with Chalk , 
Honey of Rose, and Mass of Carbonate of Iron. 

Cera Flava is yellow wax. It is a solid product obtained from 
the honeycomb of the bee by melting and purifying. 

Cere Alba is white wax. It is made by bleaching yellow wax 
with Chlorine. 

Cetacium is Spermaceti. It is a hard, fatty substance obtained 
from the head of Sperm Whale (Physeter Macerocephalous). It 
enters into cerates and ointments as a base. 

Ambergris is a substance obtained from the intestines of the 
Sperm Whale. It is not U. S. P., but is used in the MFG of 
Perfumes. 

Os is bone used in making Animal Charcoal. 

Sanguis is blood of the ox used in ten-grain doses. 

Oleum Bubulum is Neat’s-foot Oil or Cow-foot Oil. It is a fixed 
oil obtained from cow’s foot. Used externally. 


14 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Oleum Morrhuar is Cod Liver Oil. It is a fixed oil obtained 
from the fresh livers of the codfish (Gadus Morrhuae). It is a 
pale yellowish liquid with a fishy odor and taste. It consists chiefly 
of Olein and an extract called Gaduol and a crystalline substance 
called Asselline, also a small amount of Phosphorous, Iodine, and 
Bromine. The dose is three teaspoonfuls. It enters into emulsion 
of Cod Liver Oil. 

LECTURE No. 7 

Ovum Gallinaceum is Fresh Egg. It is the recently laid egg of 
the hen (Gallus Domesticus). 

Ovi Albumen Recens is the Albumen of the fresh egg. It is the 
white of the egg used as antidote for mercury poisoning. 

Ovi Vitellum is the fresh egg yolk. It is used in making emul¬ 
sions. 

Adeps Ianae is wool fat. It is called Anhydrous lanolin. It is 
the purified fat of the wool of the sheep (Ovis Aries) freed from 
water. It is miscible but not soluble in water. It should be pre¬ 
served in well-closed containers. 

Adeps Ianae Hydrosus is Hydrosus wool fat, called lanolin. It 
is the purified fat of the wool of the sheep mixed with not more 
than 30% of water. It is made by mixing anhydrous wool fat with 
water. It will mix with twice its weight of water without losing 
its ointment-like character. 

Gelatinum is Gelatin. It is the purified product obtained from 
animal tissue, such as skin ligaments and bone, by treating with 
hot water. It is used in making capsules and one U. S. P. Prep¬ 
aration. 

Gelatinum Glycerinatum is Glycerinated Gelatin. Contains 
Glycerin Gelatin and water used for pill masses. 

Fel Bovis is Ox Gall. It is the fresh bile of the ox (Bostaurus). 
It is a brownish green liquid with a very bitter taste and con¬ 
tains a principle called Glycoholic Acid, Sodium Salts, and bile 
pigments. The powdered extract is official to replace Purified Ox 
Gall of U. S. P. 8. 

Adeps is lard. It is the purified fat of the abdomen of the hog 
(Sus Scrofa). It enters into ointments and cerates. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


35 


Adeps Benzoinatus is Benzoinated Lard. Made by melting* lard 
and powdered Benzoin together and straining. The U. S. P. allows 
a small amount of wax to replace the lard in warm climates. 

Sevum Praeparatum is Prepared Suet. It is the internal fat of 
the stomach of the sheep, purified by melting and straining. 

Mosclius is Musk called Tonquin Musk. It is the dried secre¬ 
tions of the pretutial follicles of Moschus Moschiferous. It must 
be preserved in glass-stoppered bottles. It is usually seen in 
irregular granules with a penetrating odor, used in typhoid fever 
in four-grain doses. The Tincture is official and is an example 
of Tr. of animal origin. 

Saccharum Lactis is Sugar of Milk, called Lactose. It is a 
white powder used in Pharmacy as a dilucent. It is made from 
whey of cow’s milk and sometimes passed through animal char¬ 
coal to decolorize it. 

Acidun Lacticum is Lactic Acid. It is an organic acid prepared 
from sour milk. It is 85% strength. Used in making Calcium 
Lactophosphate. Dose, 4 mils. 

Lac Vaccinum is cow’s milk and must contain 3^2% butter fat. 

LECTURE No. 8 

Enzymes belong to a class of ferments having no definite struc¬ 
ture and are not living. We have three official Enzymes: Pepsin 
and Pancreatin of the animal kingdom and Diastase of the vege¬ 
table. 

Proteolytic means the power of digestion, or the decomposition 
of Proteids. 

Proteids are a group of substances constituting the greater 
part of animal or vegetable tissue capable of being changed by the 
action of acids or enzymes. 

Pepsinum is Pepsin. It is a mixture of Proteolytic ferments, 
or enzymes, obtained from the glandular layer of the stomach of 
the hog. It should be capable of digesting 3m times its own 
weight of freshly coagulated and disintegrated egg albumen. It 
is made by chopping up the mucus lining of the stomach of the 


16 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


hog, macerating in water containing a small amount of HC1 for 
several days. Strain and allow to stand for 24 hours and decant. 
Then add Sodium Chloride and the Pepsin will float on top. Then 
remove to a cloth and dry. The new form of Pepsin known as the 
spongy variety is made by drying in vacueo. Scale Pepsin is 
made in the same manner except it is macerated in water long 
enough to predigest. Pepsin is seen in white, pale yellow, yellow¬ 
ish translucent scales, grains or spongy masses or cream colored 
powder, free from offensive odor, having an acid or saline taste. 
In solution it is incompatible with Bismuth, Subcarbonate or Sub¬ 
nitrate and Alkalies. It has no U. S. P. preparations. It does not 
act on carbohydrates or fats but best given to old people for 
gastric digestion. It acts better in an acid media or warm place. 
Dose is 5 to 30 grains. 

Pancreatinitm is pancreatin. It contains enzymes, consisting 
principally of Amylopsin, Trypsin, Steapsin. It is found in the 
pancreas of warm-blooded animals, such as the hog or ox. It 
converts not less than 25 times its own weight of starch into 
soluble carbohydrates. It may be brought to a higher digestive 
degree by mixing with sugar milk. Pepsin can, too. It is seen 
in yellowish or yellow white powder having a peculiar odor and 
a meaty taste. It acts on fats and almost any class of foods. 

Pancreas are the abdominal salivary glands of animals used 
for food. 

Amylopsin is a diastatic enzyme which resembles Ptyalin, which 
is the diastatic enzyme of saliva. It converts starch into sugar. 

Trypsin is the protein splitting ferment and differs from pepsin 
in that it acts better in slightly alkaline solutions. 

Steapsin is the enzyme which emulsifies fats in the process of 
digestion and converts them into fatty acids and glycerin. 

Rennium is N. F. It is the milk-curdling enzyme of the stomach 
of the calf. We see Rennit or Junket tablets. 

Diastasum is Diastase. It is a mixture containing amylotic 
enzymes obtained from an infusion of malt. It converts not less 
than fifty times its own weight of potato starch into sugars. It is 
made by adding alcohol to an infusion of malt at no less than 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


17 


60 degrees centigrade. The dose is one to eight grains given dur¬ 
ing or after meals. 

Ptomains, called Cadaveric Alkaloids. They are produced when 
animal substances are subjected to putrifaction or fermentation. 
Most of them are intensely poisonous. They have an alkaline 
reaction and like other Alkaloids unite with acids to form salts. 

Filteration is separating a liquid from a solid so as to obtain 
the liquid in a transparent condition. This is usually done by the 
use of filter paper. 

Colation is the process of straining. 

Lotion, called Displacement Washing, is separating soluble 
jnatter from a solid by pouring a liquid upon it which will dis¬ 
solve out the soluble portions. 

Clarification is the process of separating solid substances from 
a liquid without the use of filters or strainers. This is usually 
done by the aid of heat, paper pulp, gelatin, and fermentation. 

The term Decantion is separating a liquid from a solid by pour¬ 
ing off the liquid. 

Decoloration is depriving a substance of its color by passing it 
through animal charcoal. Never pass through a solution contain¬ 
ing Tannin, Aloin, Alkaloids, as it will absorb them. 

Precipitation is separating a solid substance from a solution by 
the action of heat, light or chemical change. The precipitant is 
the substance which produces precipitation. That which is pro¬ 
duced is the precipitate. 

Magma is a heavy, thick precipitate. Two official, Milk Magne¬ 
sia and Milk of Bismuth. 

Sediment is a substance thrown out of solution by the action 
of its own gravity. 

Expression is forcibly separating a liquid from a solid. 

Pulverization by Intervention is powdering a drug by the aid of 
a foreign substance. Ex., Powdering Camphor with Alcohol. 

Granulation is heating a chemical substance with constant stir¬ 
ring until a coarse grain powder is produced. 


18 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


LECTURE No. 9 

Botany treats of the structure of plants, the functions of their 
parts, their classification and the terms used in their description. 

Radex is the Latin name for root. It is that part of the plants' 
axis which do not bear leaves and serve the double purpose of 
holding them in the ground and absorbing food for them. 

The Stem is that part of the plant that bears the leaves. Its 
functions are to bear the leaves and the floral organs. 

Annual Stem is one which lives but one season. 

Biennial Stem is one of two years’ duration. 

Perennial Stem is one that lives from year to year. 

Underground Sterns are called Subterranean Stems, and are 
rhizomes, tubers, and corms. 

Rhizomes are underground stems marked with scales. Ex., 
Podophyllum. 

Tubers are short, thick underground stems. Ex., Aconite. 

Corm is a very thick underground stem. Ex., Colchicum. 

The organs of reproduction of plants are the flowers, fruits, 
and seeds. 

Plant Hairs are called Trichomes. 

Plant Cells are defined as a Mass of Protoplasm. 

Protoplasm is a semi fluid substance that exists in plant cells 
and contains C. H. N. S. & O. 

Parasite Drugs are those that live at the expense of other 
drugs. Nut Galls. 

Saprophite Drugs are those which get their substance from 
decayed organic matter. 

Autosite Drugs are those capable of supplying food for itself 
and the parasite. 

Floivers when complete have four sets of leaves —The Calyx, 
Carrolla, Stamen, and Pistle. 

The Calyx is the outer leaflet of the flower. 

The Stamen is the male organ of the plant. 

The Pistle is the female organ of plants. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


19 


Fertilization is the union of two reproductive cells, the polen 
cell and the gum cell. 

A Spore is a reproductive body of a Cryptogram, which is itself 
a flowerless plant. 

Granular Effervescent Salts are made by mixing the medicine 
in the form of a dry powder with citric acid and bicarbonate of 
soda, passing through a sieve and drying the granules. 

Pulvis Effervescenes Compositus is Seidlitz Powder. The white 
powder contains 35 grains Tartaric Acid and the blue powder 
contains 40 grains Bicarbonate of Soda and 120 grains Rochelle 
Salts. The dose is one set of two powders. 

Solution is when a substance is made to disappear when brought 
in contact with a liquid called a solvent. Solubility is aided by 
heat, pulverization and agitation. 

An Insoluble Substance is one which will not dissolve when 
acted upon by a solvent. 

A Saturated, Solution is one that will take up no more of the 
soluble substance. 

A Supersaturated Solution is one made to hold in solution under 
certain conditions more than in ordinary circumstances. 

A Circulatory Solution is one made by placing the drug in a 
gauze bag and suspending in the solvent. 

Some of the most important solvents used in Pharmacy — 
Water, Alcohol, Dilute Alcohol, Glycerin, Ether, Acetone, and 
Carbon Bisulphide. 

Exsiccation is the process of depriving a substance of its water 
or crystallization by the aid of high heat. 

Levigation is the process of reducing a substance to a state of 
minute division by triturating after it has been made into a paste 
with water or other liquids. 

Elutration is the process of obtaining a substance in fine par¬ 
ticles by suspending an insoluble powder in water, allowing the 
heavy particles to subside, decanting the liquid and collecting the 
fine particles. 

Trochiscation is the process of making the pasty mass obtained 
by Eleutration into cones. 


20 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Aquae means Waters. Waters are aqueous preparations of 
volatile substances. We have nineteen official waters, including 1 
common water. 

The Medicated Waters are made in four ways: First, by agita¬ 
ting the medical substances with water; second, by passing gas 
through water, ex., ammonia water; third, by filtering through 
an absorbent powder, ex., aromatic waters; and, fourth, by dis¬ 
tillation, ex., aqua hamamelidies (Witch Hazel). 

We have two official waters where alcohol is used in their 
preparation. They are Camphor Water and Witch Hazel. 

We have two that are classified as byproducts. They are 
Stronger Rose Water and Stronger Orange Flower Water. 

The U. S. P. now provides a general formula for the Aromatic 
Waters: Oil 2. and Talc 15. Aqua Dist, recently boiled, qs to 
1000 mils. Note: The water must be recently boiled. 

Aromatic Waters should be as far as possible saturated solu¬ 
tions, free from solid impurities and made in small amounts to 
prevent the development of microscopic plants. 

Purified Talc is used in making all medicated waters on account 
of its insolubility. 

Aqua is water. It is a colorless limpid liquid, practically taste¬ 
less, odorless, and when heated to boiling and agitated no dis¬ 
agreeable odor should be noticed. It will not change the color of 
litmus paper. In every one hundred mils there should not be more 
than .03 of residue after the water has been evaporated to dry¬ 
ness. When this residue is heated to redness no fumes or charring 
should be noticed. On account of its impurities it has been re¬ 
placed by distilled water in the manufacture of all U. S. P. 
Preparations. The molecular weight is 18. The specific gravity is 
1. at 25 degrees centigrade. 

Aqua Distillata is Distilled Water, made by using 1,000 vol¬ 
umes, distill and reject the first 100 volumes and retain the next 
750 volumes and reject the last 150 volumes. The reason for this 
is that the first 100 volumes contain carbon dioxide and the last 
150 contain organic matter. 

Aqua Distillata Sterilisata is Sterilized Distilled Water. It is 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


21 


made by placing distilled water in a hard glass flask, covering the 
muutn ul the bottle with a pledget of cotton and boil for thirty 
minutes. Allow the water to cool without removing the cotton 
and protect the cotton by covering with paper. It should not be 
used after it has been made for 48 hours. 

The following are the official Aromatic Waters: Aqua Anisi 
(Anise Water), Aqua Cinnamomi (Cinnamon Water), Aqua For- 
niculi (Fennel Water), Aqua Minthea Piperitae (Peppermint 
Water), Aqua Mintha Viridis (Spearmint Water). 

Aseptic means free from germs. 

Pharmacodynamice is the study of the action of drugs on living 
organisms. 


LECTURE No. 10 

Fusion is liquifying solid bodies by the aid of heat. 

A Crucible is a cup-shaped vessel intended to withstand great 
heat. They are usually made from clay or porcelain. 

Ebullition is the same as boiling. 

Vaporization is the process of increasing molecular motion until 
the substance assumes the form of vapor or gas. 

Spontaneous Evaporation is evaporating liquids at ordinary 
temperature. 

Evaporation in vacuo is evaporating liquids without access to 
air. When you desire to evaporate a liquid to a fixed weight, use 
a tarred vessel. 

Heat is molecular motion. It is measured by the thermometer. 
There are three kinds of thermometers, but the U. S. P. only uses 
the Centigrade. The Celsius Scale, as it is called, is used because 
it is easier to calculate; the freezing point is 0 (zero) and the 
boiling point 100. The Fahrenheit freezing point is 32 and the 
boiling point 212. The English use the Reaumur, the freezing 
point is 0 (zero) and the boiling point is 80. 

The rule to convert Centigrade into Fahrenheit is: multiply 
the centigrade degrees by 1.8 and add 32. Example: Convert 
15 C. into F.; 1.8 multiplied by 15 equals 27, and 27 plus 32 
equals 59. 


22 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


To convert F. into C., subtract 32 and divide by 1.8. Example: 
59 F. into C. 59 minus 32 equals 27, and 27 divided by 1.8 equals 15. 

Convert 16 degrees F. into C.: 16-32 equals minus 16, or 16 
below, so 16 divided by 1.8 equals 8.8, because the difference 
between 1 degree C. and 1 degree F. is .8. 

The Clinical Tremometer is used for taking the temperature of 
the human body. Normal temperature is 98.5 degrees F. 

Physic is the art of medicine, or a medicine or drug especially 
cathartic. 

Aqua Chloroformi —Chloroform Water. It is a saturated solu¬ 
tion of Chloroform and distilled water and is made by agitating. 
It contains about CHC13. It should be kept from light to 
prevent the formation of HC1. An excess of Chloroform is 
directed to always be present in the container. It is used to dis¬ 
guise the taste of saline salts and as a sedative in x / 2 - oz. doses. 

Aqua Creosoti is Creosote Water. It contains ten (10 mils, of 
creosote to 990 mils, of distilled water. It is made by agitation 
and filtering; must be prepared fresh. Used in nausea and tuber¬ 
culosis. Dose, 2 l / 2 drachms. 

Aqua Lauroceresi is Cherry Laurel Water, not U. S. P. Con¬ 
tains .1% HCN. 

Aqua Anethii is Dill Water. Not official. 

Aneihii Fructus is Dill Fruit. It is the fruit of Anethum 
Graveloens. It belongs to the N. O. Umbellifera. Not U. S. P. 

Aqua Ammonia is Ammonia Water. It is a stimulant and 
caustic. The dose is 1. It is 10% strength and should be kept in 
glass-stoppered bottles. We have Ammonia Liniment and Aro¬ 
matic Spts. Ammonia made from it. 

Aqua Ammonia Fortioris is stronger Ammonia Water. It 
should be not less than 27 nor more than 29% St. It should be 
kept in partially filled glass-stoppered bottles. 

Aqua Hamamelidis is Hamamelis Water, called Witch Hazel 
Water, or Witch Hazel, or Extract Witch Hazel. It is made by 
macerating the bark, twigs, or entire Witch Hazel Shrub in water 
and distilling and then adding 15% Alcohol. 

A Test: If a little Witch Hazel Water is added to 8 drops of 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


23 


a l-to-200 solution of resorcin and a little sulphuric acid is added 
no red ring or white layer shoud appear, showing the absence of 
formaldehyde. 

Aqua Cinnamomi is Cinnamon Water, made like other aromatic 
waters. It will gradually become cloudy and a precipitate will 
collect on the side of the bottle. This is due to the Cinnamic 
Aldehyde, which is in the oil, gradually changing into Cinnamic 
Acid. 

Aqua Amygdalae Amara is Bitter Almond Water. It contains 
one mil. of Oil of Bitter Almond in 999 mils, of distilled water, 
made by agitation. The U. S. P. states that it should contain a 
mere trace of Hydrocyanic Acid and differs from the P. I., as 
that contains .1%. The dose of the U. S. P. is 1 drachm. 

LECTURE No. 11 

Specific Gravity is the weight of one body compared with the 
weight of an equal bulk of another body, which is selected as a 
standard, and both bodies having the same temperature. The 
temperature selected by the U. S. P. is 25 degrees C., except 
Alcohol, which is 15.6 degrees. The temperature used in Europe 
is 4, the maximum density of water. The Specific Gravity of water 
is 1.000. The advantages of Specific Gravity is to enable us to 
identify substances and judge as to their purity. 

To obtain the Sp. G. of a liquid , place a tarred vessel of speci¬ 
fied capacity on your scales and weigh it filled with water, then 
subtract the weight of the vessel from the combined weight and 
this gives you the weight of the water; then treat the substance 
the Sp. G. of which is desired in the same manner, and divide the 
weight of the substance by the weight of the water and your 
answer will be the Sp. G. of the substance. Example: A bottle 
weighs 410 grains, when filled with water it weighs 740 grains; 
so 740 minus 410 equals 330, the weight of the water. The same 
bottle filled with glycerin weighs 821 grains; 821 minus the 
weight of the bottle, 410, equals 411; so 411 divided by 330 equal* 
1.2455, the Sp. G. of the glycerin. 


24 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


The Pyonometer is a Specific Gravity Bottle, and is most accu¬ 
rate of all methods for taking the Sp. G. 

The Hydrometer, often called Aremeters, are instruments used 
for taking the Sp. G. of liquids by sinking to a depth correspond¬ 
ing to the density of the liquid. There are two kinds on the mar¬ 
ket, one for liquids heavier than water and those lighter. 

Urinometer is a floating instrument used to take the S. Pg. of 
urine. 

A Saccharometer is one used for taking the Sp. G. of syrups. 

A Lactometer is one used to take the Sp. G. or milk. 

Glucosides. The English name ends in “in” and the Latin in 
“inum.” They usually represent the active principle of plants. 
They are neutral in reaction. When they are treated with dilute 
mineral acids or a ferment they split up and one of the products 
is glucose. Salicin, Strophantin, and Ammoniated Glycyrrhizin 
are the official Glucosides. 

Resinoids, also called Resins, are obtained from plants by pour¬ 
ing a concentrated alcoholic solution in water, the resin being 
precipitated, filtered out and dried. We have four resins official. 

Resina, called Rosin, is what is left in the still after the volatile 
oil has been distilled from turpentine. It enters into cerates, 
some ointments and plasters. 

Resin Podophyllum, called Podophyllin, is made by percolating 
the podophyllum root with alcohol and pouring the concentrated 
solution in water containing a small amount of HC1, collecting 
the precipitate and drying. The dose is % gr. It is sometimes 
called vegetable calomel. Resin of Scammony and Resin of Jalap 
are both made in the same way except the HC1 is left out of the 
water. 

Matter is anything having weight and occupying space. It ex¬ 
ists in three states: Solid, Liquid, and Gaseous. 

The Solid, the molecules are compact. The Liquid, the mole¬ 
cules move freely around, and the Gaseous, the molecules are so 
far apart that they have lost all attraction for each other. 

Mass is the smallest particle of matter that can be appreciated 
by the senses. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


25 


Divisibility is the mechanical subdivision of matter into parts, 
the smallest particle of matter obtained by this subdivision we 
call Molecules. All changes that take place within the molecules is 
Chemistry. 

Elements are substances which cannot be split up into any sim¬ 
pler form of matter. There are about eighty Elements. Ten are 
gaseous, ex., H. N. O. & C.; two are liquid, ex., Bromine and Mer¬ 
cury, and the remainder solids. 

A Chemical Compound is two or more elements combined in 
definite proportion. Example: Water, H20, Hydrogen, Monoxide. 

The Law of Definite Proportion is: The relative weight of ele¬ 
mentary substances contained in a compound are definite and 
never vary. Ex., H20. 

A Binary Compound is one whose molecule consists of two ele¬ 
ments. Ex., H20. 

A Ternary Compound is one whose molecule contains three ele¬ 
ments. Ex., H2S04. 

A Quartenary Compound is one whose molecule contains four 
elements. Ex., KHS04. 

The Properties of a Compound are the properties of its own 
and entirely different from those of its constituent elements. 

Analysis is breaking a substance down from its component 
parts. 

Synthesis is building a substance up from its component parts. 

The Principles of Chemical Nomenclature are: That the name 
shall indicate as far as possible the composition and constitution 
of the substance. (By composition we mean the kind of elements 
the molecule is composed of and the number of atoms of each kind 
and by constitution we mean the relation which the atoms com¬ 
posing the molecule bear to each other. The Graphic Formula 
shows this.) 

Oxidation is adding Oxygen to a substance. Reduction is taking 
Oxygen from a substance. 

Oleoresins are mixtures of oils and resins. They are prepared 
by placing the drug in a special glass percolator for volatile sub¬ 
stances, pack the powder firmly and pour on your ether and per- 


26 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


colate slowly. Recover the greater part of the ether by distilla¬ 
tion on a water bath; transfer the residue to a dish and allow the 
remainder to evaporate in a warm place. 

Oleoresins have no definite strength, the dose varying, as ex¬ 
ample, Capsicum is Yi gr. and Aspidium is 30 gr. 

Oleoresin of Petrosilina is Liquid Apiol. Dose, 8 minims. 

Oleoresins are all insoluble in water. They should be from a 
soft solid to a liquid and should be kept in well-stoppered bottles. 

Copaiba is known as Balsam Copaiba. It is not a balsam but 
a natural Cleoresin obtained from several species of Coaiba from 
S. A. It belongs to the Family Leguminose. It is used as a diu¬ 
retic, expclorant, stimulant and antiseptic. 

Terebinthina is Turpentine. It is a natural Oleoresin from the 
Southern pine. It is not U. S. P. Upon distillation it yields 
Volatile Oil of Turpentine and Resina or Rosin. 

Density is the quantity of a substance expressed in weight in 
a given space. 


LECTURE No. 12 

Liquors are aqueous preparations of non-volatile substances, in 
a menstrum, consisting chiefly or wholly of water .25' official. 

Liquors are divided into two classes: Chemical and Simple. 

Ex. Chemical Solution is Ammonii Acetatis, and Ex. Simple , 
Liquor Calcis. Remington classes 12 Simple and 13 Chemical. 

All Arsenic Solutions are 1% strength and the dose is 3 to 5 
minim. 

Liquor Acidi Arsenosi is Solution of Arsenous Acid, called 
Hydrochloric Solution of Arsenic and also Solution of Arsenic 
Chloride. Made by dissolving Arsenic Trioxide in dilute Hydro¬ 
chloric Acid and water by the aid of a little heat. Dose, 3 minims. 

Liquor Arseni et Hydrargyrid Iodide, Solution of Arsenous and 
Mercuric Iodide, known as Donovan’s Solution. Made by dis¬ 
solving Iodide of Arsenic and Red Mercuric Iodide in distilled 
water. It should be a light straw color and if darker it shows 
free Iodine and should be rejected. It is used as an alterative 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


27 


and the dose is 1J4 minims. To prevent liberation of Iodine, keep 
a globule of mercury in the bottle. 

Ldquor Cculcis is Solution of Calcium Hydroxide, called Lime 
Water and Aqua Calcis. Made by slacking lime very gradually 
by pouring lm mils, of water on it and let stand half hour, 
then pour off the liquid and throw away. Take the Magma of 
Calcium Hydroxide and wash with boiled distilled water. Then 
return the paste or magma to a suitable vessel and add 5m mils, 
of distilled water. Let stand 24 hours before using, then as the 
liquid is wanted use only the clear solution, allowing the magma 
to remain in the bottom of the bottle. If hard water is used, 
scales of Carbonate of Lime will form on the top and sides of the 
bottle. Dose Lime Water, 4 mils. Antacid. 

Hard Water contains lime, but can be made soft by boiling. 

Liquor Iodi Compositus is Compound Solution of Iodine, known 
as Lugof s Solution, it contains 5% Iodine and 5% Iodide. 
Potash and Water. The Iodide of Potash is added to make the 
Iodine soluble. In every fluid drachm of this solution there are 
3.1 grs. of Iodine. It should be kept in glass-stoppered bottles. 
Dose, 3 minims. Used as alterative. 

Liquor Plumbi Subacetatis Dilutus. Diluted Solution of Sub¬ 
acetate Lead, called Lead Water. Made by mixing Solution of 
Subacetate of Lead with Distilled Water. It becomes opalesence 
on standing, due to the formation of Carbonate of Lead. This can 
be cleared up by the addtion of a few drops of Acetic Acid. It is 
used as an astringent and antiseptic Ext. 

Ldquor Potassii Hydroxidi, Solution of Potassium Hydroxide. 
It should contain not less than 4.5% Potassium Hydroxide. Made 
by dissolving KOH in water. Dose, 1 mill. 

Liquor Sodii Arsenatis , Solution of Sodium Arsenate, is Solu¬ 
tion of Sodium Arsenate 1% strength. Made by dissolving Sodium 
Arsenate in Distilled Water. Used as alterative and antiperiodic. 
Dose, 3 minims. 

Pearson's Solution of Sodium Arsenate is in the N. F. and is 
also P. I. It is 1/10 the strength of the U. S. P. preparation 
above. 


28 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Liquor Sodii Hydroxidi, Solution of Sodium Hydroxide, con¬ 
tains 4.5% Sodium Hydroxide in water. Dose, 1 mil. Antacid. 

Liquor Cresolis Compositus is Compound Solution of Cresol. 
It is very similar to Lysol. It contains Cresol, Linseed Oil, KoH, 
Alcohol and water. It is antiseptic, deodorant, and disinfectant. 

Liquor Hypophysis is Solution of the Pituitary Body. It is a 
solution of the water soluble principles of the posterior lobe of 
the Pituitary Body of cattle. It is used as a Hemostatic. Dose, 
1 mil. 

Liquor Sodii Chloridi Physiololicus is Physiological Salt Solu¬ 
tion, known as Normal Salt Solution. Made by dissolving 8.5 
Sodium Chloride in freshly distilled water, qs to lm mils. Then 
sterilize by boiling for one hour, and preserve in sterile condition. 
This preparation must be carefully made and not used after 48 
hours made. 

Liquor Sodii Glyserophosphatis , Solution of Sodium Glycero¬ 
phosphate, called Solution Sodium Glycerinophosphate. It is 50% 
strength. It is clear to a yellowish syrupy liquid. Used as a 
nerve tonic in 6 minim doses.' 

The above solutions are all Simple Solutions. Chemical Solu¬ 
tions follow. 

LECTURE No. 13 

Liquor Ammonii Acetatis, Solution of Ammonium Acetate, 
called Spirits Mindererus. It should contain not less than 7% 
Ammonium Acetate. Made by dissolving 5 gm. Ammonium Car¬ 
bonate in 100 mils, dilute Acetic Acid. The Ammonium Carbonate 
that is used must be in hard translucent pieces and the solution 
freshly prepared and have a slight acid reaction. It is used as 
a diaphoretic and diuretic and enters into Basham’s Mixture. 

Dilute Acetic Acid can be made by mixing one part Acetic Acid 
and five parts of water. 

Liquor Ferri et Ammonii Acetatis, Solution of Iron and Ammo¬ 
nium Acetate, known as Basham’s Mixture. Made by adding Solu¬ 
tion of Ammonium Acetate to Dilute Acetic Acid, then add Tinc¬ 
ture Iron, Glycerin, Simple Elixir and water qs. It should be freshly 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


29 


prepared. Dose is 4 fluid drachms. Always be sure your mixture 
of Ammonium Acetate and Dilute Acetic Acid is thoroughly acid 
before adding your Tr. Iron and other ingredients. The brown 
precipitate which falls on standing or if prepared improperly is 
Basic Ferris Acetate. This preparation should be a clear reddish 
liquid. 

Liquor Ferri Chloridi, Solution of Ferric Chloride, called Solu¬ 
tion of Chloride of Iron. Contains Iron Wire, Nitric Acid, Hydro¬ 
chloric Acid and Distilled Water. It is between 10 to 11% St. 
It is used for making Tr. Chloride of Iron. 

Liquor Ferri Subsulphatis, Solution of Subsulphate of Iron, 
known as MonselTs Solution. Made by adding Sulphuric Acid 
to water and heat to 100 degrees, then add Nitric Acid. Then 
take Sulphate of Iron and divide into four parts and add one part 
at a time, allowing effervescence to cease after each addition. It 
is a reddish brown liquid containing 13.5% Iron. This solution 
sometimes crystalizes, forming a whitish mass. The application 
of a little heat will restore it. It is used as a styptic. Dose, 3 
minims. 

Liquor Ferri Tersulphatis is Solution of Ferric Sulphate. Made 
in the same manner as Monsell’s Solution except in different pro¬ 
portions. It contains 10% of Iron. It is used for preparing the 
antidote for Arsenic. 

Liquor Hydrogenii Dioxidi is Solution of Hydrogen Dioxide, 
called Peroxide of Hydrogen. Formula H202. It was formerly 
classed as a water but the substances used in its manufacture 
were found to be only slightly volatile. It should contain when 
fresh 3% Hydrogen Dioxide, corresponding to 10% available 
Oxygen. The U. S. P. allows 4 centigrammes of Acetanilide to 
every 100 mils, as a preservative and when this is used and the 
Sol. develops a bitter Almond odor it should be rejected. It should 
be kept in a cool place protected from light with the stopper cov¬ 
ered with paraffiine or covered with cotton. It can be made by 
acting on Barium Dioxide with Phosphoric Acid and water. It is 
used as a deodorant, antiseptic. Dose, 1 drachm. 

Ldquor Plumbi Sabacetatis is Solution of Lead Subacetate, 


30 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


known as Goulard’s Extract. It is an aqueous solution, contain¬ 
ing Lead Subacetate corresponding to 18% Lead. It contains 
Lead Acetate, Lead Oxide and water. Made by dissolving Lead 
Acetate in boiling distilled water, then add this to the Lead Oxide 
and boil the mixture for half an hour and add previously boiled 
distilled water qs. It is a clear colorless liquid used for making 
Lead Water, also used externally. The reason it is boiled and the 
reason freshly boiled distilled water is used is to expel all air, 
as it contains Co2gas, which would cause a precipitate of Car¬ 
bonate of Lead. 

Liquor PotassiiArsenitis, Solution of Potassium Arsenite, called 
at the P. I. Liquor Arsenicalis Fowleri, known as Fowler’s Solu¬ 
tion of Arsenic. It is made by boiling Arsenic Trioxide with 
Potassium Bicarbonate in a little water until solution is formed, 
then add Tr. Lavender and filter. Lavender is added to color 
and taste. 

Liquor Magnesii Citratis, Solution of Magnesium Citrate. 
Made by dissolving Citric Acid in hot water and rubbing up 
Magnesium Carbonate in water and mixing the two solutions, 
then add syrup and heat to boiling, then add Oil of Lemon pre¬ 
viously triturated with purified talc, and then filter and add water 
qs., and place in a bottle of special make and add Potassium 
Bicarbonate, and stopper at once. Bicarbonate of Soda is per¬ 
mitted to replace the Potash if desired. The dose is one bottleful, 
12 ounces. 


LECTURE No. 14 

Liquor Sodae Chloranatae, Solution Chlorinated Soda, called 
Labarraque’s Solution. It is used as a disinfectant and deodor¬ 
ant. Made by acting on a solution of Chlorinated Lime with a 
Solution of Carbonate of Soda. It should contain not less than 
2 1 / 2 % of available Chlorine. It is a pale greenish liquid. 

Eau de Jevelle is Jevelle Water. It is identical with Labar¬ 
raque’s Solution except Potash is used instead of Soda. It is in 
the N. F. 

Dakin's Solution is made by acting on Carbonate of Soda in 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


31 

water mixed with Chlorinated Lime. Let stand for one hour and 
syphon off the clear solution and add Boric Acid. 

Carral-Dakin’s Solution is made by acting on a Solution of 
Chlorinated Lime with a solution of Carbonate and Bicarbonate 
of Soda. 

Liquor Zinci Chloride, Solution of Zinc Chloride, called Bur¬ 
nett’s Solution or disinfecting fluid. Contains Zinc, Hydrochloric 
Acid, Nitric Acid, Precipitated Carbonate of Zinc, and water. It 
is used as a disinfectant. It is a clear, colorless liquid and odorless. 

Liquor Chlori Compositus, Comp. Solution of Chlorine, known 
as Clorine Water, N. F. It should contain not less than .4% 
Available Chlorine. It contains Potassium Chlorate, Hydro¬ 
chloric Acid and water. It is a yellow liquid used as a disinfectant 
and is used in dilute solutions in Scarlet Fever and Diphtheria. 

Liquor Sodii Boratis Compositus, Compound Solution of Sodium 
Borate of Soda, known as Dobell’s Solution. Contains Sodium 
Borate, Sodium Bicarbonate, Liquified Phenol, Glycerin, and 
water. Used as an alkaline antiseptic nasal spray. The change 
that takes place in this mixture: The Borax is decomposed by the 
Glycerin and converted into Boric Acid and Glycerobrate, and the 
Boric Acid acts on the Bicarbonate of Soda and liberates C02 gas. 

Compound Solution of Phosphate of Soda N. F. contains Phos¬ 
phate of Soda, Citric Acid, Glycerin, and water. Made by heating 
Citric Acid and Phosphate of Soda in a porcelain vessel on a 
water bath until liquified. Filter the solution while hot and add 
the Glycerin and distilled water. The water must be freshly boiled 
and the solution kept in a moderately warm place. The Glycerin 
is added to effect solution and the Citric Acid to prevent crystali- 
zation. In every mil. of the solution there is one gram of Soda. 
The dose is 8 mills. When called upon to make a permanent 
solution of Phosphate of Soda use this method. 

All Wines, Whiskies and Brandies have been dropped by the 
U. S. P. and added to the N. F. There are 16 wines recognized 
by the N. F. and one is not Medicated Sherry Wine. 

Vinum means Wine. Vinum Rubrum is Red Wine, and Vinum 
Album is White Wine. 


32 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Red Wine is made by fermenting the juice of the grapes in the 
presence of their seeds and skins. In making White Wine the 
grapes are freed from their seeds and skins. Both Red and White 
Wine should contain 8 to 15% of Alcohol. This strength is accord¬ 
ing to the P. I. 

White Wine was used in the manufacture of all the Official 
Wines and Alcohol was added to Wines as a preservative. 

Vinum Xericum is Sherry Wine and is a White Wine, 20%. 

Vinum Potense is Port Wine. It is a Red Wine, 16 to 22. 

Wines contain a great deal of Tannin. They can be detannated 
by adding Tr. Chloride of Iron, little at a time until it ceases to 
turn black, then add six ounces of fresh milk to each gallon and 
let stand and filter. 

Medicated Wines are liquid preparations containing the soluble 
principles of drugs dissolved in wine. 

Wine of Antimony is made by dissolving Tartar Emetic in boil¬ 
ing water and then adding Sherry Wine. 

Vinum Colchici Seminis is Wine of Colchicum Seed. Contains 
fluid extract of Colchicum Seed and Alcohol in Sherry Wine. Dose, 
30 minims. 

Vinum Ferri Amarum is Bitter Wine of Iron. It is made from 
Citrate of Iron and Quinine. Vinum Ferri is made from Iron and 
Ammonium Citrate. 

Vinum Camis et Ferri is Wine of Beef and Iron, called Beef 
Wine and Iron. 

Acetae Vinegars are liquid preparations made by treating the 
drug with dilute Acetic Acid. One official. 

Acetum Scillae , Vinegar of Squills. It contains 10% Squills. 
Made by macerating Squills with dilute Acetic Acid for seven 
days, then strain and wash the mass with dilute Acetic Acid qs., 
then heat to boiling, which is done to coagulate albuminous mat¬ 
ter so that when it is added to sugar and water in making Syrup 
of Squills it will be clear. 

Vinegar of Opium was official and was 10% St. It was called 
Black Drop. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


33 


LECTURE No. 15 

Spirits ave Alcoholic solutions of volatile substances, 15 official 

m the N. F. Spirits made by maceration are called Essences 

Spirits are made in the following- ways: First, by Maceration- 
ex., Peppermint. Second, Simple Solution; ex., Spirits of Cam’ 

offioi , ; r \^ G T,° US S0,Uti0n; -- Spirit Amlnia n" 
official. Fourth, by Chemical Reaction; ex., Spirits Nitre- and 
Firth, by Distillation; ex., Spirits Frumenti. 

Sptntus Aetheris is Spirit of Ether, known as Hoffman’s Drops. 
Made by muting Ether with Alcohol. It is used as antispasmodic 
analgesic, and stimulant. Average dose, 4 mils. 

Compound, Spirit of Ether is Hoffman’s Anodyne N. F Con¬ 
tains Ether, Alcohol, and Etheral Oil. Dose is 4 mils 

Compound Spirit of Orange, Latin, Tittle Spiritus Aurantii 
Compositus, contains Oil of Orange, Oil of Lemon, Oil of Anise 
0.1 of Coriander, and Alcohol. It should be kept in a dark, cool 
place in well filled, tightly stoppered bottles. It is used for mak 
ing Simple Elixir. 

Spiritus Aetheris Nitrosi is Spirit of Nitrous Ether called 
of T Nitre - 14 is an alcoholic liquid containing 4% 
Ethyl Nitrite. It is a diuretic, diaphoretic, antispasmodic Dose 
2 mils. ' 

Spirit of Ammoia is made by mixing ammonia water with alco 
hoi and distilling. 

Spiritus Ammoniae Aromaticus, Aromatic Spirit of Ammonia 
It is made by dissolving Ammonium Carbonate in water and a 
little Ammonia Water; let stand for 12 hours, then dissolve Oils 
of Lemon, Lavender, and Nutmegs in Alcohol and mix the two 
solutions. Let stand for 24 hours and filter. The reason Ammo¬ 
nia Water is used is to convert the Ammonium Carbonate into a 
normal salt and make it more soluble. The reason you let it stand 
for 24 hours is to allow the white crystaline precipitate to fall 
This precipitate is Ammonium Bicarbonate and is insoluble in 
Alcohol. 

Aromatic Spirits of Ammonia when first made is clear, but on 


34 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


standing it gradually darkens, due to the action of the Ammonia 
on the Alcohol and Oils, but this does not affect the therapeutic 
action. Dose is 2 mils (30 minims). 

Spiritus Juniperi Compositus, Compound Spirit of Juniper, is 
known as Holland Gin. Used as a diuretic. Dose, 10 mils. 

Spiritus Camphorae, Spirit of Camphor. It is 10% strength, 
made by dissolving Camphor in Alcohol. Used as anodyne, anti- 
spasmodic, and stimulant. Dose, 1 mil. 

Spiritus Chloroformi, Spirit of Chloroform. It is 6% strength. 
Made by mixing Chloroform and Alcohol. Dose, 2 mils (30 min¬ 
ims). Used as anodyne and sedative. Valuable in cough mixtures. 

Spiritus Menthae Piperitae, Spirit of Peppermint. Made by 
macerating the Peppermint Herb in water for one hour, then add 
the herb to Alcohol and Oil of Peppermint and let stand six hours 
and filter. The herb is used solely to give the spirit color. It is a 
fine green color. Used as a carminative, flavoring, and stimulant. 
Dose, 30 minims. 

Spiritus Menthae Viridis is Spirit of Spearmint. Made and used 
like Spirit of Peppermint. 

Spiritus Amygdalae Amarae is Spirit of Bitter Almond. Con¬ 
tains Oil of Bitter Almond, Alcohol and a small quantity of water. 
The U. S. P. states that it is for medicinal use only and must not 
be sold for flavoring. The dose is 8 minims. 

Spiritus Glycerylis Nitratis, Spirit of Nitroglycerin, called 
Spirit of Glyceryl Trinitrate, also Spirit Glonoin. It is 1% 
strength. It should be tasted with great care, as it will produce 
a great headache. It should be handled with caution, as it is 
liable to explode and cause fire. If by accident it should be spilled, 
pour a solution of Potassium Hydroxide on it. The dose is one 
minim. In every minim there is 1/100 grain of Nitroglycerin. 
It is used in. epilepsy, asthma, and cardiac stimulant. 

Spiritus Formicarum N. F ., known as Spirit of Ants, is Spirit 
of Formic Acid. 

Mistura Mixtures are aqueous preparations intended for inter¬ 
nal use and contain insoluble suspended substances. Two official. 

Misturae Cretae, Chalk Mixture, contains compound chalk 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 35 

powder, cinnamon water and water. Used as an antacid. Dose, 
15 mils. 

Misturae Glyciyrrhiza Compsitus, known as Brown Mixture, 
contains Ext. Licorice, Acacia, Tartar Emetic, Syrup, Paregoric] 
Sweet Spirits Nitre, and water. Used as a demulcent, expectorant, 
diuretic, and as a vehicle for Ammonium Chloride in cough mix¬ 
tures. 

All mixtures are liable to ferment and should be freshly pre¬ 
pared and dispensed with a shake label. 

Mixture Rhubarb Compound, known as Mixture Rhubarb and 
Soda, also Neutralizing N. F. Cordial. 

Acid Camphor Mixture is Hope’s Mixture, N. F. 

Copaiba Mixture is Lafayette’s Mixture, N. F. 

Compound Iron Mixture is Griffith’s Mixture, N. F. 

Mixture of Opium and Chloroform is Squibb’s Diarrhoea Mix¬ 
ture, N. F. 

Mixture of Opium and Sassafras is Godfrey’s Cordial. 

Compound Spirits of Myrcia is Bay Rum, N. F. 

Spiritus Ammoniae Anisatus is Anisated Solution of Ammonia. 
Contains Anathol, Ammonia Water, and Alcohol. N. F. 

LECTURE No. 16 

Percolation is the process whereby a powder is placed in a suit¬ 
able vessel called a percolator and is deprived of its active and 
soluble constituents by the descent of a solvent through it. 

The Term Lexiviation, or Displacement in Pharmacy , is the 
same as percolation. The rate of flow in percolation can be con¬ 
trolled by the use of a piece of rubber tubing placed on the neck 
of the percolator and the use of a stop-cock. 

The Object of Moisting the drug before percolation begins is 
to allow the drug to swell and receive the menstrum. 

The reason the drug is passed through a sieve is to get the drug 
more uniform after swelling. 

The Cylindrical Percolator is best for Pharmaceutical use. 
Drugs that are liable to swell, a cone-shaped percolator is beat 


36 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Volatile Substances, the percolator should be covered. Hot per¬ 
colation should be carried on in metal percolators. 

The Advantage Percolation has over Maceration is, in macera¬ 
tion there is always some finished product left in the vessel. 

Fractional Percolation is known as repercolation, that is, using 
the same menstrum to fresh portions of the drug. 

The Marc is what is left in the percolator after percolation. 

Linimenta, Liniments, are solutions or mixtures of various 
medicinal substances with oleogenious fluids, Alcohol or Liquid 
Soap, intended for external use. Eight official. 

Four Liniments are made with Alcohol as a vehicle, three with 
a fixed oil, and one with Oil of Turpentine as a base. 

Ammonia Liniment is made by mixing Sesame Oil and Ammo¬ 
nia Water. 

Linimentum Saponis, Soap Liniment, contains dried Castile 
Soap, Camphor, Oil Rosemary, Alcohol and water. It is 4.5% 
Camphor. This liniment should stand 24 hours before filtering, as 
a precipitate generally falls which is Sodium Palmetate, and 
should be filtered out. If you use a soap made from animal fats, 
the liquid will gelatinize. Called Liquid Opodeldoc. 

Linimentum Saponis Mollis is Liniment of Soft Soap. Contains 
soft soap, Oil of Lavender and Alcohol. It is called Tincture of 
Green Soap. 

Linimentum Terebinthinae, Turpentine Liniment, known as 
Kintish Liniment, is made by dissolving Rosin Cerate in Oil of 
Tuepentine. It is so thick that it is dispensed in Ointment jars. 

Linimentum Cloroformi is Chloroform Liniment, made by mix¬ 
ing 70% Soap Liniment and 30% Chloroform. 

Linimentum Calcis is Lime Liniment, known as Carron Oil. 
Made by mixing equal parts Lime Water and Linseed Oil (raw 
oil). This liniment is very valuable for burns and it is an example 
of a soluble soap. 

Linimentum Camphor a is Camphor Liniment, known as Cam¬ 
phorated Oil. Made by dissolving Camphor in Cottonseed Oil by 
the aid of heat on a water bath. Contains 20% camphor. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 37 

Belladonna Liniment contains Camphor and Belladonna Root 
Fluid Extract. 

Camphorated Soap Liniment , N. F., is Solid Opodeldoc. 

Acetic Turpentine Liniment, N. F., is known as Stokes’ Lini¬ 
ment and St. John Long’s Liniment, and contains egg as the sus¬ 
pending agent. 

Oleates are a class of preparations intended for external use, 
composed of metallic salts or alkaloids in Oleic Acid, which is 
readily absorbed by the skin. 

Oleate of Mercury is made by mixing yellow Oxide of Mercury, 
Alcohol, and add Oleic Acid. Apply little heat until alcohol is 
expelled, then add Oleic Acid qs. It is 25%, and the only official 
Oleate. 

Oleates are made direct from the Alkaloids and not their salts, 
and Oleate of Atropine and Oleate of Veratrine are 2% strength. 
Oleate- of Cocaine should be 5% strength, and Oleate of Quinine 
25%. Oleates are more readily absorbed by the skin than any 
other substances. 

Petroxolinmns are a class of external preparations readily ab¬ 
sorbed by the skin and resemble the Petrogen Preparations on 
the market. Their value depends on their ingredients being solu¬ 
ble in the base. 

Liquid Petroxolin contains Light Liquid Petrolatum, Oleic Acid, 
Oil of Lavender, Ammoia Water and Alcohol. It is a yellowish- 
like liquid and produces an emulsion-like liquid when added to 
twice its weight of water. This is used as a base for the medical 
substances. 

Solid Petroxolin contains White Wax in addition to the other 
ingredients of the Liquid. 

LECTURE No. 17 

Syrups are concentrated solutions of sugar and water, contain¬ 
ing medical substances. Twenty-two official. 

Syrup or Simple Syrup contains about 7 pounds of sugar to the 
gallon of water, and the Sp. G. is 1.313. 


38 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Syrup of Acacia contains Acacia, sugar and water. 

Syrup of Citric Acid contains Citric Acid, Tr. Lemon, and 
syrup. It should not be dispensed unless free from moulds. 

Syrup of Hydriodic Acid is 1%%, made by mixing dilute Hydri- 
odic Acid with syrup and water. Dose, 4 mils. 

Syrupus Ferri Iodidi is Syrup of Iodide of Iron, 5% strength. 
Made by adding water to Iodine and Iron in a thin glass flask, 
allow to stand until it assumes a green color and has lost all 
Iodine odor, then filter and heat to boiling, then add sugar and 
water and a little dilute Hypophosphorous Acid. The acid is added 
as a preservative, that is, to prevent oxidation and loss of Iodine. 
The reason the solution is heated is to expel all air and prevent 
oxidation. The dose is 1 mil. (15 minims.). 

Syrupus Pruni Virginianae is Syrup Wild Cherry. Made by 
macerating Wild Cherry Bark in water containing a little glycerin 
for 24 hours. This is then percolated with water, and sugar is 
added. Heat must never be Employed in making this syrup, as 
heat destroys the Hydrocyanic Acid and Oil. The object of.mace¬ 
rating in water is to develop up the Hydrocyanic Acid and Oil. 
The glycerin is used as a preservative. The amount of HCN in 
this syrup is indefinite, as it is very volatile. The dose of the 
syrup is 1 drachm. 

Syrup of Ivecacuannae is Syrup of Ipecac. Made by adding 
Fluid Extract of Ipecac to Acetic Acid and water mixed. Set 
aside for 24 hours and filter, and add glycerin, sugar and water. 
The Acetic Acid is used to convert the Alkaloids of Ipecac into 
Soluble Acetates and the Glycerin to prevent fermentation. Ex¬ 
pectorant dose, 1 mil. Emetic dose, 15 mils. 

Syrupus Rhei, Syrup of Rhubarb, contains Fluid Extract Rhu¬ 
barb, Spirits of Cinnamon, Carbonate of Potash, little water and 
syrup. The Potash is added to prevent precipitation of the Resin. 
Dose, 2J4 drachms. 

Syrupus Tolutans is Syrup of Tolu, made by rubbing up Tinct. 
Tolu with Magnesium Carbonate and part of the sugar, then add 
water and filter, and then add the remainder of the sugar. The 
Magnesia is used to aid the removal of finely precipitated matter 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


39 

caused by the water and Alcoholic Solution of Tolu. It is used 
in Syrup of Ginger also. 

Aromatic Syrup of Rhubarb is made from the Aromatic Tinc¬ 
ture of Rhubarb, Carbonate of Potash, and syrup. 

Syrupus Scillae Compositus, known as Cox’s Hive Syrup, con¬ 
tains Tartar Emetic dissolved in warm water, Fluid Extract of 
Squills, Fluid Extract Senega, and syrup. Dose, 2 mils. 

Syrup Sarsaparilla Compound is used as a vehicle for Iodides. 
It contains three fluid extracts. 

Syrup of Squills contains Vinegar of Squills, sugar and water. 

Syrup of Calcium Lactophosphate contains seven ingredients: 
Calcium Carbonate, Lactic Acid, Phosphoric Acid. Strong Orange 
Flower Water, Sugar, Glycerin, and Water. The change in this 
syrup: The Calcium Carbonate is converted into Calcium Acid 
Phosphate, Calcium Lactate, and Lactic Acid. 

The following syrups are made from or contain a Tincture: 
Syrup of Orange, Syrup of Lactucarium, Syrup of Rhubarb Aro¬ 
matic, Syrup of Tolu. 

Syrup of Rose contains Fluid Extract of Rose, dilute Sulphuric 
Acid, and syrup. 

Syrup of Hypophosphites contains a Hypophosphites of Cal¬ 
cium, Potassium, and Sodium. Dose, 10 mils. 

Mucilagines are Mucilages. They are aqueous solutions of muci¬ 
laginous drugs. Two official. 

Mucilago Acaciae, Mucilage of Acacia. Made by dissolving 35 
grams of Acacia in 100 mils, of water. This preparation should 
be made fresh. In the last U. S. P. this preparation contained 
33% Lime Water added as a preservative. 

Mucilago Tragacanthae y Mucilage of Tragacanth. Made by 
macerating Tragacanth in boiling water and Glycerin. 

Mucilage of Chondrus is Mucilage of Irish Moss. N. F. 

Mucilage of Sassafras Medulla is Sassafras Pith. N. F. 

Emulsions are aqueous preparations in which oleogenous sub¬ 
stances are suspended by the aid of gums or other viscid matter. 
Four official. 

Emulsion of Amygdalae is Emulsion of Almond. Made by 


40 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


blanching the Almonds, rubbing up with sugar and Acacia and 
gradually add water. Ex. of Seed Emul. 

Emulsion of Asafetida, called Milk of Asafetida. Made by 
rubbing up Asafedita with water gradually added until uniform 
product results. It contains 146 grs. Asafedita to 8 ozs. of water. 

Emulsion of Turpentine and Emulsion of Cod Liver Oil, Acacia 
is the gum used. In making an Emulsion of Chloroform, use 
Tragacanth. 

To clean a mortar that has contained Asafetida, use a solution 
of Caustic Potash Soap and water. 

Melita, Honeys. Three official: Mel Depuratum, Mel Rosae, 
and Mel. 


LECTURE No. 18 

Glycerita. Glycerites are mixtures of medicinal substances in 
Glycerin. Five official. 

Glyceritum Acidi Tannici, called Glycerite of Tannin. Made by 
dissolving Tannic Acid in Glycerin by the aid of a little heat. 
Antiseptic and astringent. 

Glyceritum Amyli is Glycerite of Starch, called Glycerin Oint¬ 
ment. Made by rubbing starch with water until smooth, then add 
Glycerin and heat until a translucent jelly is formed. Heating 
drives off all water and makes it more valuable as an excepient in 
pill masses. 

Glyceritum Phenolis is Glycerite of Phenol. Made by mixing 
Liquified Phenol with Glycerin. Dose, 5 minims. 

Glyceritum Hydrastic is 100% and the U. S. P. furnishes assay. 
It should contain not less than 1.12 gm. of Ether Soluble Alkaloids 
in every 100 mils. Made by percolating the Hydrastis with Alco¬ 
hol, recovering most of the Alcohol by distillation, then pour the 
remaining thick liquid in ice water and let stand for 24 hours. 
This precipitates out the yellow resin. Filter and add Glycerin. 
This solution is colorless and contains the white Alkaloid Hydras- 
tine. The Glycerite of Hydrastis is the only preparation of Hy¬ 
drastis that will mix with water without precipitation. The dose 
is 30 minims, 2 mils. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


41 


Glyceritum Boroglycerini, Glycerite of Boroglycerin, contains 
Boric Acid dissolved by heat in Glycerin. 

Elixirs are sweetened alcoholic liquids intended to disguise the 
taste of bitter or nauseous drugs. Two official. 

Elixir Aromaticum, called Simple Elixir, contains Compound 
Spirits of Orange, Purified Talc, Syrup, Alcohol, and water. 

Elixir Glycyrrhiza , known as Elixir of Licorice, in U. S. P. 8 
as Elixir Adjuvans, contains Fluid Extract Licorice and Simple 
Elixir. 

Infusions are aqueous solutions made by treating the drug with 
either hot or cold water. Two official. They contain the water 
soluble principles of the drugs. 

When Infusions are ordered and are not official, they should 
be 5% strength unless poisonous and then the strength should 
be stated'by the physician. They should be allowed to macerate 
for half hour, and if the drug contains a volatile principle should 
be made with cold water. 

Infusions are incompatible with salts of the heavy metals , like 
Iron, Mercury, and Silver, as the Infusions contain Tannin and 
it will precipitate them. It will also precipitate Alkaloids and 
their salts. 

It is not advisable to let Infusions macerate too long as too 
much Tannin will be obtained. The usual time is one-half to one 
hour. 

Infusions are more active than decoctions because the amount 
of heat employed in decoctions destroys the active •constituents. 

Infusion of Digitalis is 1 strength, ft is made by the hot 
process and Digitonin, the diuretic principle, is active. It must 
be freshly prepared from the leaves. Made by macerating Digi¬ 
talis leaves in boiling water for one hour, filter and add Cinna¬ 
mon Water and water. Dose is 4 mils. 

Infusum Sennae Compositum is Compound Infusion of Senna, 
Black Draught. It contains Senna, Manna and Fennel macerated 
in boiling water one-half hour, then strain and add Epsom Salts 
to the liquid and strain again. Dose, 120 mils. 

Decoctions are aqueous solutions made by boiling the drug in 


42 ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 

water. None official, but should be 5% unless specified by the 
M. D. 

Tinctures are alcoholic solutions of non-volatile substances. 
Fifty-four official; 28 of 54 are made by percolation, and they are 
mostly the Tinctures of potent drugs, and an assay in usually 
given. 

Resinous Drugs, the Tinctures must be made by maceration. 
Example, Tinct. Benzoin. Tincture of Iodine is made by solution. 
Tincture of Chloride of Iron is made by dilution. That is four 
ways the Tinctures are made, yet we have some Tinctures made 
by special processes. Example, Tincture Cantharides, Opium, 
Squills, and Arnica. 

Example of a Tincture made by maceration and percolation: 
Tr. Opium. 

Tinctures must never be made from Fluid Extracts, as often 
the menstrum is not the same and the heat in preparing the F. E. 
destroys the drug. 

The main advantage Trs. have over F. E. is, the menstrum is 
hydro-alcoholic and will mix with water without precipitating. 
Glycerin is used in the menstrum of some Trs. as a preservative, 
that is, hold the tannin in solution and prevent precipitation. 

We have two Trs. made with a menstrum of Aromatic Spirit of 
Ammonia as a menstrum: Tr. Guaiac Ammoniated and Ammoni- 
ated Tr. Valerian. 

The U. S. P. furnishes two type processes for preparing Tinc¬ 
tures: P. and M. 

P. is as follows: Moisten the drug with sufficient menstrum to 
render it damp, then place in a percolator and without packing 
the drug, allow to stand six hours. Then pack firmly and pour 
upon it the menstrum, and when it begins to drop, close and allow 
to macerate 24 hours. Then allow the percolation to proceed, and 
gradually add enough menstrum to bring up to the required 
amount. 

Type M. is: Macerate the drug with majority of the menstrum 
for three days, and filter and wash filter with remainding men¬ 
strum to bring up to required amount. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


43 


The following Trs. are assayed Biologically: Aconite (Guinea 
pig), Digitalis, Squills, and Strophanthus (frog), Cannabis (dog). 

Assay processes for Tinctures containing Alkaloids are given 
by the U. S. P. and they number 18 in all. Example, Hydrastis, 
Cinchona, Nuxvomica, and most all the potent tinctures. 

LECTURE No. 19 

Tincture Benzoin Compound, known as Frier’s Balsam and 
Turlington’s Balsam. Made by macerating Benzoin, Aloes, Storax 
and Balsam of Tolu in Alcohol. 

Tincture Cinchona is a standardized Tincture. In every 100 
mils there should be one gramme of the Alkaloids of Cinchona. It 
is made from yellow Cinchona Bark. 

Tincture Cinchona, Compound, known as Huxham’s Tincture. 
Made by percolating Red Cinchona Bark, Bitter Orange Peel, and 
Serpentaria with a menstrum of Alcohol and water. It is also a 
Standardized Tincture and every 100 mils, should contain 
gramme of the Alkaloids of Cinchona. Dose, 4 mils. 

Tmcture Ferri Chloridi, Tr. Ferric Chloride, known as Tincture 
of Iron, Tincture of Muriate of Iron, and Tr. Steel. It is made 
by adding the Solution of Chloride of Iron to Alcohol. This Tinc¬ 
ture must be placed in amber-colored bottles and stored in a cool 
place for three months before using. This is done to develop up 
the compound ethers which give to it its diuretic properties. The 
reason it is protected from light is to prevent Ferric Chloride 
from being converted into Ferrous Chloride. It enters into 
Basham’s Mixture. It is a bright amber-colored liquid with an 
ethereal odor. It is 13% strength. It is used as a tonic. It has 
an astringent taste. Dose, 10 drops. 

Tincture Lavender Compound is made by maceration. It con¬ 
tains Oil of Lavender, Oil of Rosemary, Powd. Cinnamon, Cloves, 
Nutmegs, and Red Saunders in Alcohol and little water as men¬ 
strum. The Red Saunders gives its red color. 

Tincture Cardamon Compound contains Cochineal as the color¬ 
ing agent. 


44 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Tincture Gentian Compound contains Gentian, Bitter Orange 
Peel, and Cardamon Seed, percolated with Glycerin, Alcohol and 
water. 

Tincture Gambir Compound is made by maceration. It is known 
as Comp. Tr. Pale Catechu. It contains Cinnamon and Gambir. 

Tincture Iodine contains 7% Iodine and 5% Iodide of Potash, 
in Alcohol and a little water. The Iodide of Potash is added to 
make the Iodine soluble when diluted with water, and also to pre¬ 
vent the loss of Iodine by evaporation. The dose is V/ 2 minims. 

Tincturae Nucis Vomicae is Tr. Nux Vomica. Made by perco¬ 
lating the Nux Vomica in a No. 40 powder with a mixture of 
three parts Alcohol and one part water. The rate of flow for this 
Tr. is 10 drops per minute. In every 100 mils, of the tincture 
there should be .25 gm. of the Alkaloids of Nux Vomica. The dose 
is 8 minims. It is known as Tr. Strychnine at the P. I. 

Tincture Lactucarium is made by beating up the Lactucarium 
with sand to a coarse powder. Place in a bottle and add purified 
Benzine and let stand for 48 hours. Filter and throw the liquid 
away. Allow the Lactucarium to dry and then percolate with a 
menstrum of Alcohol, water and Glycerin. The reason this drug 
is first treated in this way is to remove the fixed oil. Dose, 2 mils. 

Tincture Rhubard Aromatic contains Rhubarb, Cinnamon, 
Cloves and Nutmegs, with a menstrum of Alcohol, water and 
Glycerin. Dose, 30 drops Arom. Syr. 

Tincture Antiperiodic, N. F., is Warburg’s Tincture. 

Tincture Capsicum and Myrrh is Hot Drops. 

Tincture Guaiac Co., N. F., Davies’ Tincture of Guaiac. 

Tr. Opii Crocata is Opium with Safron, known as Sydenham’s 
Laudanum, N. F. 

Pectorial Tincture is Bateman’s Drops. 

Tincture Sanguinaria contains a little HC1 in the menstrum to 
develop up the Alkaloids and prevent precipitation. Dose, 15 drops. 

Urine. The Specific Gravity of healthy urine is 1.020. 

The normal constituents of normal urine are Phosphates and 
Chlorides. 

The abnormal constituents are Albumen and Sugar. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


45 


A test for Albumen in Urine: Place a small amount of urine 
in a test tube, add a few drops of Nitric Acid, heat almost to 
boiling and let stand, and if a precipitate occurs it indicates 
Albumen. 

A test for Sugar in Urine: Place a small amount of urine in a 
test tube and add an equal amount of Fehling’s Test Solution and 
heat almost to boiling, and if sugar be present a red precipitate 
will fall to the bottom. This precipitate will be Copper Oxide. 

Fehling’s Test Solution is composed of two solutions. The first 
is made by dissolving Copper Sulphate in water and the second is 
made by dissolving Rochelle Salts and Potassium Hydroxide in 
water. Mix the two solutions and the mixture is Fehling’s Test/ 
Solution. 

Normal Urine is pale yellow. Dark amber Urine usually con¬ 
tains large amounts of Uric Acid. 

There is 48 ounces of normal urine passed in 24 hours, and 
960 gr. of solids. To obtain the amount of solid matter passed in 
urine, multiply the last two figures of the Specific Gravity by the 
number of ounces obtained and the result will be the amount of 
solids expressed in grains. Example: 20x48=960 grs. 

A test for Bile in Urine: Add a few grains of sugar to the 
urine and boil and if a violet red color is produced it indicates 
the presence of bile. 

Collodions are liquid preparations used externally. Three 
official. 

Collodium is Collodion. It contains Pyroxylin (Gun Cotton), 
Ether and Alcohol. 

Collodium Flexile is Flexible Collodion. It contains Collodion, 
Camphor, and Castor Oil. The oil makes it flexible. 

Collodium Cantharidatum, Cantharidal Collodion, known as 
Blistering Collodion. Made by macerating Spaish Fly in Acetone 
and Glacial Acetic Acid for 24 hours, then percolate with Acetone 
and evaporate most of the Acetone and mix the residue with 
Flexible Collodion. 

Styptic Collodion , N. F., contains Tannic Acid and Flexible 

Collodion. 


46 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Pulveres, Powders, are mixtures of medicinal substances in fine 
powder. Seven official. They are: 

Aromatic Powder, which contains Cinnamon, Ginger, Cardamon 
Seed and Nutmegs. It is used for making the Aromatic Fluidext. 

Pulvis Cretae Compositas, Compound Chalk Po, contains pre¬ 
pared chalk, sugar and Acacia. Used for making Chalk Mixture. 

Pulvis Effervescens Compositus, Seidlitz Powder. 

Pulvis Glycyrrhiza Compositus, Compound Licorice Powder. 
Contains Oil of Fennel, Washed Sulphur, Po. Sugar, Senna and 
Licorice. Dose as a laxative, 60 gr. 

Pulvis Ipecacuanhae et Opii, Dover’s Powder. Contains 10 
parts Po. Opium, 10 Po. Ipecac, and 80 parts Sugar Milk. Dose, 
8 grs. 

Pulvis Jalapae Compositus, Compound Powder of Jalap. Con¬ 
tains 35 grs. Powdered Jalap and 65 grs. Potassium Bitartrate. 
Dose, 30 grs. Hydrogogue Cathartic. 

Pulvis Rheii Compositus, Compound Rhubarb Powder, known 
as Gregorey’s Po. Contains Rhubarb, Ginger and Magnesium 
Oxide. It is a pinkish powder and gradually becomes darker on 
exposure, due to the MgO acting on the coloring matter in the 
Rhubarb. The dose is 30 grs. 

Triturationes, Triturations. Not but one official. They are 
powders that are made by mixing an active substance in a minute 
division by trituration with sugar of milk. Trituration Elaterin 
is the one. Contains 10%. The dose is J / 2 gr. 

Cerates are called that from Cera, meaning Wax. Three official. 

Ceratum, or Simple Cerate, contains white wax and Benzoin- 
ated Lard. 

Ceratum Cantharidis, called Blistering Cerate, contains Can- 
tharides, Glacial Acetic Acid, Oil of Turpentine, Yellow Wax, 
and Benzoinated Lard. Enters into Cantharidal Plaster. 

Ceratum Resinae, Rosin Cerate, called Basilicon Ointment. 
Contains Rosin, Yellow Wax and Lard. 

Compound Rosin Cerate, known as Deshler’s Salve. Contains 
Rosin, Yellow Wax, Suet and Linseed Oil. 

Cerate of Lead Subacetate, N. F., is Goulard’s Cerate. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 47 

Yellow Wax is preferred to White Wax as it will remain firm 
and free from rancidity longer. 


LECTURE No. 20 

The Symbol is the shorthand name for the element or abbrevia¬ 
tion for the element. Example: S for Sulphur or Zn for Zinc. 

The Chemical Formulae is Synibols placed so as to show their 
union and the result of their mixture. 

Atomic Weight expresses how many times heavier other atoms 
are than the Atoms of Hydrogen. Example: Hydrogen is l f 
Oxygen is 16 and Nitrogen is 14. 

Molecular Weight is the combined Atomic Weights, thusly, 
HN03 is Nitric Acid. The Molecular Weight would be H —1, 
N—14, and 0=16, X3 = 48. Now, all these added would be the 
Molecular Weight of Nitric Acid. 

The Proportion in which atoms combine depends on valency. 

Valency , also called Atomicity, is the capacity every atom pos¬ 
sesses of uniting with other atoms. The unit of measuring this 
capacity is the combined power of Hydrogen. Atoms that can 
hold one hydrogen atom in combination (or its equivalent of some 
other element) is known as univalent. Those capable of holding 
two is called bivalent, and those three are trivalent, and so on. 

Hydrogen is taken as a standard for valence because one atom 
of Hydrogen is not able to hold more than one atom of another 
element in combination. 

Valence, called Quantivalence, is the combining power of an 
element expressed in Hydrogen units. 

An Element may have more than one valence. For example, 
Iron FeC12 is Ferrous Chloride acting as a dyad or combining 
power of two, and FeC13, which is Ferric Chloride, has three. 
This is called Multiple Valence. 

Bond expresses Valence. That is, an atom has as many bonds 
as it has valence. Example: H has one bond, thusly, H—, and 
Oxygen has two, thusly, —0—, and N has three, etc. 


48 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Bonds are used in the Graphic Formulae. It is used to show the 
arrangement of the atoms of a molecule, thusly, Acetic Acid. 
C2H402, would be expressed thusly, 

H fO 

H— C — cl 
H lo-H 

The Rational Formula separates the groups and shows the class 
of compounds a substance belongs to, as CH3, COOH. 

The Molecular Formula shows the exact number of atoms in a 
molecule, as Acetic Acid C2H402, and the Empirical Formula 
shows the simplest ratio of atoms in a molecule, as CH20. 

In constructing the formula it is necessary to remmber that 
when we replace H in an acid by anything, a salt is the result, 
and that the law of the reservation of mass must be followed. 
Example: ZnO plus 2HCl=ZnCl2-}-H20. 

Ic Acids produce “ate*’ salts, and ous Acids produce “ite” salts. 

All the elements except Florine unite with Oxygen to form 
Oxides, as Ca is Calcium CaO is Calcium Oxide. 

Hydroxides are formed by dissolving an Oxide in water. Ex., 
CaO plus H20 equals Ca(OH)2, which is Calcium Hydroxide. Hy¬ 
droxides are often called Hydrates. And the Oxides and Hydox- 
ides of the metals we term Alkalies, and the Hydroxides and 
Oxides of the non-metals, we call Acids. 

An Acid is a compound that always contains Hydrogen, and all 
or part of it can be replaced by the base. 

Hydracides are those that do not contain Oxygen. They are 
formed by uniting with elements like Cl, Br, by combining with 
Hydrogen only. 

Oxyacids are the Hydroxides of the non-metals and contain 
Hydrogen and O. 

A Salt is formed by the action of an acid on a base. 

Radicals are a group of atoms capable of being transformed 
from one compound to another without being broken up. Exam¬ 
ple, CH3. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 49 

The Sulphides of all the metals can be converted into Oxides 
by roasting. 

Cohesion is the attraction of like molecules. 

Adhesion is the attraction of unlike molecules. 

Chemical Affinity is the attraction of atoms for each other. 

Potential Energy is stored-up energy. 

Kinetic Energy is active energy. 

The Lmv of Multiple Proportion. When two elements unite in 
more than one proportion, as N&O, the several proportions of O 
which combine with N fixed proportion of N bear a simple ratio 
to each other, the varying proportions are whole multiples, never 
fractional. 

The Law of Conservation of Mass. In every chemical reaction 
the sum of the weight of the product is always equal to the sum 
of the weight of the factors. 

Nomenclature. Sometimes an element in uniting with H&O to 
form an acid, unites with different quantities of Oxygen to form 
different acids, and the termination “ic” is then applied to the 
acid containing the most oxygen. And “ous” to the one contain¬ 
ing less. Example, H2S04 and H2S03. The termination “ate” 
is applied to salts from acids ending in “ic,” and “ite” is applied 
to those from ‘ous” acids. 

Then the prefixes are applied to those containing a greater 
amount of oxygen than the “ic” acids. Ex., per or super, as 
HCL03 is Chloric Acid and HC104 is per Chloric Acid. Then, 
again, an acid containing less oxygen than the “ous” Acids, pre¬ 
fixes are used, as H3P03 is Phosphorous Acid, and H3P02 is 
Hypophosphorous Acid. 

When an acid contains an element for its Acidulous Radical, 
the prefix Hydro is used, as Hcl is Hydrochloric Acid. 

“Ide” is used for those salts or compounds containing only two 
elements, as NaCl is Chloride of Sodium. 

Mono means one. Ter means three. 

Duo means two. Quandra means four. 

Bis means two. Tetra means four. 

Bi means two. Penta means five. 


50 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Sub means low. 

Hypo means low. 

Sesque means iy 2 times. 
Ortho means regular. 
Meta means different. 


Hexa means six. 

Poly means many. 

Per means above. 

Hyper means above. 

Super means above. 

Proto means low. 

Pyro means that produced by high heat. 

These are Monads or Univalent Compounds, having the com¬ 
bining power of one: 

All Chlorides contain Cl. All Nitrates contain N03. 

All Iodides contain I. All Chlorates contain C103. 

All Bromides contain Br. All Hydroxides contain OH. 

All Cyanides contain Cn. All Acetates contain C2H302. 

These are Diads or Bivalent Compounds, having the combining 
power of two (2) : 

All Oxides cantain 0. All Sulphates contain S04. 

All Sulphides contain S. All Carbonates contain C03. 

All Sulphites contain S03. 

These are Triads or Trivalents, having the combining power 
of three: 

All Borates contain B03. 

All Phosphates contain P04. 

Sulphides of all metals can be converted into Oxides by 
roasting. 

Carbonates contain Carbon and Oxygen and liberate C02 gas. 

A Medicine Dropper should have an external diameter of 3 
millimeters and should discharge distilled water so that 20 drops 
would equal one gramme. One millimeter is 1/25 of an inch. 

Dalton’s Atomic Theory is: All matter is divisible into small 
particles called atoms, which are themselves indivisible, having 
fixed weight. 

The Law of Multiple Proportion: When two elements unite, as 
N&O, the several proportions of Oxygen which combine with a 
fixed proportion of Nitrogen bear a simple ratio to each other 
(Beal’s Law). The varying proportions are whole multiples, 
never fractional. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


51 


Sulphides are made direct from the element Sulphur. 

Sulphates are made from Sulphuric Acid. 

The termination “a” indicates the oxide of the element, as Soda. 

The termination “um” or ”ium” shows the element alone. 

A Subscript is written at the lawer right-hand corner of the 
Symbol. 

A Coefficient is written before a formula and applies to all the 
atoms following. 

The Alkalies Proper are Potassium, Sodium, Lithium, and Am¬ 
monium. 

Caustic Alkalies are the Hydroxides of K & Na. 

Carbonated Alkalies are the carbonates of K & Na. 

The Volatile Alkalies are Ammonium Hydroxide and Carbonate. 

Symptoms of Aresnate Poisoning: Vomiting of greyish or 
greenish color and pains in the stomach. 

Symptoms of Phenol Poisoning: Burinig in mouth and throat, 
breath strong with Phenol odor. 

Symptoms of Strychnine Poisoning: Tetanic Spasms. 

One Molecide of Phosphorous consists of four atoms. 


LECTURE No. 21 

A Salve is a stiff ointment to be applied to the skin. 

A Pomade is a perfumed ointment. 

Epidermatic Ointments are those intended to act upon the sur¬ 
face of the skin. 

Endiderm,atic Ointments are those that penetrate into but not 
through the skin. 

Diadermatic Ointments are those that go through the skin for 
constitutional effects. Example, Lanolin. 

The character of the base of an ointment should depend on the 
therapeutic action desired. Lard is not so readily absorbed by 
the skin and Petrolatum not at all, but Wool Fat is readily ab¬ 
sorbed. 

Unguenta means Ointments. They are fatty preparations in- 


52 ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 

tended for external use, the vehicle depending’ on the effects 
desired. 

Twenty Ointments Official , and they are made in three ways: 
First, by Fusion; example, Ointment of Oxide of Zinc. Second, 
by Mechanical Admixture or incorporation; example, Yellow 
Oxide of Mercury and Belladonna. Third, by Chemical Reaction; 
example, Ointment of Nitrate of Mercury. 

Ointments must be dispensed smooth and free from rancidity. 
Ointments that contain Tannin, or any free acid, must not be 
mixed with an iron spatula, on account of the chemical reaction. 

In making Ointments of the Alkaloids , first rub up the Alka¬ 
loid with part of the base and then add the remainder. 

Petrolatum will take up about 5% of water, Lard about 15%, 
and Lanolin about 505. 

ZJnguintum is ointment or simple ointment. Contains white 
wax and Benzoinated Lard. 

Ointment of Boric Acid is made by melting Paraffin and add 
White Petrolatum and Boric Acid. 

Unguintum Aqua Rosae is ointment of Rose Water, called Cold 
Cream. It contains Spermaceti, White Wax, expressed Oil of 
Almond, Borax and Stronger Rose Water. The Borax is added 
to make the ointment white, and if it is ever prescribed with 
metallic salts the Borax should be left out. 

Ointment of Belladonna and Ointment of Strammonium are 
both made from their respective solid extracts by first levigating 
them with dilute Alcohol and then adding Wool Fat (Hydrous) 
and Benzionated Lard. 

Ointment of Iodine is 4% strength. Made by rubbing up Iodine 
and Iodide of Potash with Glycerin until smooth, then add Ben¬ 
zoinated Lard. The Iodide of Potash is added to make the Iodine 
soluble. Metallic Spatula should not be used. 

Ointment of Iodide of Potash , N. F., contains Iodide of Potash 
Sodium Thiosulphite, little water, and Benzoinated Lard. The 
Soda is added to prevent the liberation of Iodide. When the lard 
becomes rancid it liberates fatty acids which would attack the 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


53 


Iodide and the soda neutralizes them. In making Ointment of 
Iodide of Soda you should use the same precaution. 

Unguintum Hydrargyri Oxidum Flavum Ointment of Yellow 
Oxide of Mercury is 10% strength. Made by rubbing up the Mer¬ 
cury with little water, then add Lanolin and Petrolatum. 

Ointment of Red Oxide of Mercury, N. F., is made the same 
way, and Metallic Spatula should be avoided in making both. 

Ointment of Ammoniated Mercury is 10% strength and con¬ 
tains Petrolatum and Lanolin. 

Unguintum Hydrargyri is Mercurial Ointment. It is 50%. 
Made by rubbing up Mercury (Quicksilver) with Oleate of Mer¬ 
cury, then adding lard and suet previously melted. 

Unguintum Hydrargyri Dilutum is diluted Mercurial Oint¬ 
ment, called Blue Ointment. It is 30% strength and made by 
mixing 60 parts Ointment of Mercury with 40 parts Petrolatum. 
It is the one recognized by P. I. 

Ointment of Oxide of Zinc, 20%, is made by rubbing up the 
Oxide of Zinc with one-fourth the melted lard and then add the 
remainder melted lard. 

Ointment of Calamine, N. F., is known as Turners Cerate. 

An Ointment of Iodoform can be made smooth by first rubbing 
Iodoform up with Alcohol. 

To remove the odor of lodoform from utensils, first wash with 
Oil of Turpentine, then soap and water. 

Unguintum Hydrargyri Nitratis, Ointment of Nitrate of Mer¬ 
cury, called Citrine Ointment, on account of its color. It is made 
from Mercury, Nitric Acid and Lard, as follows: Heat the Lard 
in a porcelain dish to about 45 degrees c., then add part of the 
Nitric Acid and continue the heat until reaction is complete, 
and stir until a bright citrine color is produced. Then dissolve 
the Mercury in the remainder of the Nitric Acid and mix the two. 
The change that takes place in this Ointment is: The Nitric Acid 
acts on the Olein in the Lard and changes it to Elaidin and 
Nitric Oxide, and the Nitric Acid and Mercury form Mercuric 
Nitrate. The commercial ointment varies from a light yellow to 
a dark red brown. 


54 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


LECTURE No. 22 

Crystallization is the process whereby substances are caused 
to form certain forms called crystals. The process usually takes 
place when the body passes from a liquid to a solid. 

Crystals are obtained by the following* methods: Sublimation, 
Precipitation, and from supersaturated solutions, the latter being 
the most favorable. 

The use of the Nuclei, or a string, aids in Crystallization. 

Solids sometimes mechanically enclose water. This is called 
Interstitial Water, because of the cracking noise produced by 
heating such a crystal. It"is also called Water of Decrepitation. 

If a substance absorbes moisture from the air, it is called 
Hygroscopic. If it absorbes enough to liquify it, it is called 
Deliquescent. Ex., Acetate Potash. Crystals that lose water on 
exposure to air are called Efflorescence. 

Mother Liquor is the liquid that remains after crystals have 
been formed. 

Substances that will not crystallize are called Amorphous. 

The object of Crystallization is to purify substances. 

We have six systems of Crystals: The Monometric, Dimetric, 
Trimetric, the Hexagonal, Monoclinic, and Triclinic. 

Dialysis is separating crystallizable substances from those that 
will not crystallize, by placing a mixture of their solutions on a 
porous diaphram, which has its under surface in contact with 
another liquid; the liquids will gradually diffuse and the sub¬ 
stance which will crystallize will pass through, and are called 
crystalloids, and that which will not pass through are called 
colloids. 

Pilulae , Pills, are small, solid bodies of globular or oval shape, 
intended to be swallowed and thereby produce medicinal effects! 
They should weigh from 2 to 5 grains. 

A Bolus is a large pill, used in veterinary practice. They usu¬ 
ally weigh from 10 to 100 grains. 

Concentric Pills are those made up of different layers of drugs 
so as to dissolve and become active in different parts of the body. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


55 


Enteric Pills are those insoluble in the acid contents of the 
stomach, but will dissolve in the alkaline juices of the intestines. 
They are usually coated with Salol or Keratin. Keratin is made 
from horny matter by treating with ether, pepsin and HC1. It is 
not much used. 

To coat pills with salol, melt the salol and dip the pills into it. 

In coating pills with gold or silver, use the leaf and first roll 
the pill in a little mucilage of acacia. To make a pearl coated pill, 
roll in the mucilage of acacia and then in talc. 

Excepients for Pill Masses. They are inert agents used to im¬ 
part adhesiveness, develop adhesiveness, dry up liquids and those 
used with easily reduced chemicals. 

A Few Good Excepients: Glucose, Honey, and Syrup are used 
to give adhesiveness; Dilute Alcohol, Water, Glycerin are used 
with drugs that give adhesiveness; Glycerite of Starch, or Traga- 
canth makes a good excepient for drugs like Quinine or Acetanilid 
or bulky organic compounds; Kaolin with Petrolatum makes a 
good excepient for chemicals like Permanganate of Potash, 
Nitrate of Silver, etc. 

Mica Panis means crumbs of bread and is used for Croton Oil, 
and Starched Wax, made by shaving wax and drying and mixing 
with starch, is also used to a great extent for oils. 

Powdered Soap is used for pills of resinous substances, like 
Opium, Asafedita and Aloes, by mixing the drug with the soap 
and then mixing with water. The soap in Aloes pills prevents the 
harshness of the drug and in Opium pills it makes the Opium 
more soluble. 

Absorbent Powders are used to dust over pills and take up the 
moisture. Powdered Licorice, Althea and Lycopodium are the 
most common. 

There are seven pills in the U. S. P.: Pills of Aloes, Asafetida, 
C. C. Pills, Pills of Phosphorous, Pills of Iodide of Iron, Pills of 
Carbonate of Iron and Compound Pills of Rhubarb. 

Pills of Ferrous Iodide are made by rubbing up reduced Iron 
and Iodine in a mortar with a little water until the liquid ceases 
to have a reddish tint, then add Licorice, Sugar and Acacia; 


56 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


make into a mass, cut and roll into pills and coat with an ethereal 
solution of Tolu. Each pill contains about gr. of Iron and 
34 gr. of Iodine in combination. 

Pills of Phosphorous are made by dissolving Phosphorous in a 
little Chloroform by the aid of heat, then mix with Althea and 
Acacia and make into a mass with water or Glycerin, then roll 
into pills and coat with an ethereal solution of Tolu. Each pill 
contains 1/100 gr. of Phosphorous. The Tolu prevents oxidation. 

Ethereal Solution of Tolu contains 154 grs. of Balsam Tolu to 
243 minims of Ether. We have two pills coated with this. 

Pills of Ferrous Carbonate are known as Blaud’s Pills. 

Compound Cathartic Pills are official and contain 1 gr. Calomel 
to each pill. 

Comopund Rhubarb Pills contain Rhubarb, Aloes, Myrrh and 
Oil of Peppermint. 

Vegetable Compound Cathartic Pills contain Comp. Ext. Colo- 
cynth, Ext. Hyoscyamus, Ext. Leptandra and Resins of Podo¬ 
phyllum, and Jalap. They do not contain Calomel. Dilute Alcohol 
is the excepient. They are in the N. F. 

LECTURE No. 23 

In Making Pills of Calcium Sulphide, Salicilate of Soda, or 
Iodoform, use Powder Tragacanth and Glycerin. 

Pills of Aloes and Mastic, N. F., are known as Lady Webster 
Pills. 

Antiperiodic Pills, N. F., are Warburg’s Pills. 

Pills of Iron, Quinine, Strychnine and Arsenic Strong art- 
known as metallic pills. The mild are known as Aikin’s Pills. 

In making pills that contain Camphor and Chloral, use flour 
to take up the liquid and glucose for adhesiveness. 

Camphor Pills, use Powdered Soap and Castor Oil as the ex¬ 
cepient. 

Compound Laxative Pills, N. F., are the same as Lapactic Pills. 
They contain Aloin, Belladonna, Strychnine and Ipecac. 

Gelatin Capsules are composed of Gelatin, Glycerin and water. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


57 


the amount of gelatin varying as to a hard or soft capsule desired. 

Califadent Drugs are those that produce warmth. 

Antilithic Drugs are those that prevent the formation of 
Calculi. 

Emollient Drugs are softening or soothing. 

Nephritics are drugs used in kidney diseases. 

Medicines are substances used to ease pain or cure disease. 

When you detannate a substance you take the Tannin from it. 

Massae, Masses. Two official: Massa Ferri Carbonatis is Mass 
of Carbonate of Iron, and is made from Ferrous Sulphate, Mono- 
hydrated Carbonate of Soda, and Syrup and Honey. The dose is 
4 grains. 

Massa Hydrargyri is Mass of Mercury, known as Blue Mass or 
Blue Pill, and is made by rubbing up Mercury with Oleate of 
Mercury and add Honey of Rose and rub until the Mercury is not 
visible under a magnifying glass magnifying ten diameters. Then 
add Licorice. Altheia and Glycerin and mix thoroughly. Dose, 
4 grains. 

Troches, often called Lozenges, are medical substances com¬ 
bined with sugar and Mucilage of Tragacanth and molded into 
shape. The following Troches are now official: Ammonium Chlo¬ 
ride, Tannic Acid, Bicarbonate of Soda, Cubebs and Troches of 
Chlorate of Potash. 

In making Troches of Clorate of Potash be careful to avoid 
strong pressure, as they are liable to explode. 

Emplastra are Plasters. There are seven official and two are 
Spread: Emplastrum Spredrapum Capsici and Emplastrum 
Spredrapum Cantharidis. Belladonna Plaster is made from Ex¬ 
tract of Belladonna Leaves and is a standardized plaster. It con¬ 
tains 30% Ext. Belladonna Leaves and .4% Alkaloids. 

Lead Plaster, known as Diachylon Plaster, contains Lead Oxide, 
Olive Oil and Lard. 

Emplastrum Elasticam is Rubber Plaster, known as Rubber 
Adhesive Plaster. It is a mixture of rubber, resins and waxes 
with a filler of absordent powder, such as orris root or starch, 
mechanically mixed and spread upon cloth. 


58 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Capsicum Plaster is made by spreading the Oleoresin of Cap- 
icum on rubber plaster, spread on thin and leave a margin around 
t. Every 15 centimeters should contain 25 decigrams of Oleo¬ 
resin. 

Cantharides Plaster is made by spreading the Cerate of Can- 
tharides on rubber plaster and leaving a margin around the sides. 
It is known as Blistering Plaster. 

Emplastrum Sinapis is Mustard Plaster. Was called Sinapis 
Chartae or Mustard Papers. They are made by percolating black 
mustard seed in benzine to remove the fixed oil. The Mustard is 
then mixed with a solution of India Rubber in Carbon Disulphide 
and spread on cloth. Before applying the plaster it should be 
dipped in warm water for 15 seconds. This is done to develop up 
the Volatile Oil of Mustard to which it owes its virtue. 

Rosin Plaster , common name Adhesive Plaster, contains Rosin 
Cerate, Yellow Wax and Plaster. 

Z O Adhesive Plaster is made by mixing Oxide of Zinc with 
Rubber Adhesive Plaster and spreading on cloth. It is not official. 

In making Lead Plaster, there is a chemical change that takes 
place. When Olin, Stearin and Palmatin of the Lard are heated 
with the Lead Oxide and water, Lead Oleate and Glycerin are 
formed. The Glycerin is washed out. Water is necessary in this 
mixture for the chemical change and the loss of evaporation from 
heating must be replaced, so use boiling water so as not to chill 
the mixture. 

Icthyocolla Plaster is known as Court Plaster. 

If at any time the surface of a plaster becomes hard it can be 
softened by applying a little Spts. Camphor. 

Lamels are very small disks of Gelatin with Glycerin and some 
medicinal substance. Used to drop into the eye or make hypo¬ 
dermic solutions. None U. S. P. 

Bacills are Troches in the form of short rods. 

Terra Silicea, Purificata, Purified Silicious Earth, called Puri¬ 
fied Kieselghur and Purified Infusorial Earth. It is used as a 
filtering medium for Aromatic Waters, but is better for Aromatic 
Elixirs, because they are filtered faster and are clearer. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


59 


The following Neutral Principles are official: Aloin, Chrysa- 
robin, Elaterin, and Santonin. 

Aloin is obtained chiefly from Curacao Aloes. It is a micro- 
crystaline powder, orange yellow color. Used as a laxative in 
54 gr. doses. 

Chrysarobin is a mixture of neutral principles obtained from 
Goa Powder which is a substance deposited in the wood of Voua- 
capoua Araroba. It is an orange yellow powder used as an altera¬ 
tive and for making the ointment. It stains the skin but can be 
removed with a weak solution of Chlorinated Lime. Dose, 54 gr. 

Santonin is obtained from Levant Worm Seed. It is an anthel- 
mentic in 54 to 54 gr. doses for children. Not repeated often. 

Salicin and Strophanthin are true Glucosides, and Ammoniated 
Glycyrrhizin is a Glucoside prepared from Glycyrrhizin, the sweet 
principle of Licorine. « 

Salicin is obtained from Salix, the Willow or Populus, the pop¬ 
lar. It is used an an anti-rheumatic, anti-periodic and tonic. Dose, 
15 grains. 

Strophanthin is from Strophanthus. Used as a Cardiac Tonic 
in 1/80 gr. doses. 

Cachets , called Wafer Capsules, also Konseals, are made by 
pouring a mixture of flour and water upon hot greased plates and 
pressing as desired. 

Tablets. We have one official; it is Toxabellae Hydrargyri 
Chloridi Corrosivi. It is poison Tablet of Corrosive Mercuric 
Chloride, called Corrosive Sublimate Tablets and Bichloride Tab¬ 
lets or Antiseptic Tablets. They should be angular in shape, each 
having the word “poison” and the skull and crossed bones stamped 
on them. Each tablet should weigh about one gramme and con¬ 
tain .5 grammes of Bichloride of Mercury and the remainder 
Sodium Chloride, which is added to make them soluble. They are 
to be colored blue with Sodium-Indigotin Disulphonate, and dis¬ 
pensed in glass containers with a red poison label. 

Compressed Tablets are made by placing the medical substance 
in molds and pressing into desired shape. The substance should 


60 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


be in its original granular condition or made so with sugar or 
Gum Arabic. 

Tablet Triturates, often written T. T.’s, are made by triturat¬ 
ing the medical substance with sugar of milk and dampen with 
water and press into shape. 

Hypodermic Tablets are made in the same manner except sugar 
is usually used as the substance must be readily soluble. 

Disintegrated Tablets are those made in such a manner they 
will break up in a few seconds when placed in water. They are 
made by adding dry starch to the substance during the process 
of making. This class of tablets is desired when insoluble sub¬ 
stances, as Bismuth, Subnitrate and Acetanilid, is wanted. 

Dilute Hydrocyanic Acid HCN is an organic acid 2% strength. 
Made by acting on Cyanide of Silver with Dilute Hydrochloric 
Acid and water. It is a sedatiye and frequently used in cough 
mixtures. It is very poisonous and the antidote is Ferric Chloride 
and inhalation of Ammonia. Dose is Yz minim. It should be kept 
protected from light and heat in well cork stoppered bottles. 

LECTURE No. 24 

Pix Lithanthracis is Coal Tar, called Pix Carbonis. It is made 
by the destructive distillation of coal. 

Phenol (C6H50H), called Carbolic Acid, known as Phenic Acid. 
It is a Hydroxabenzene obtained from Coal Tar by the distilla¬ 
tion of the heavy oil. It is 97% strength. Seen in whitish mass, 
sometimes acquiring a pinkish tint, which can be removed by 
adding a little Alcohol and heating. The dose is one grain. 

The Antidote is Calcined Magnesia or any Alkali, also Alcohol. 

Phenol Liquifactum, Liquified Phenol. It is 87% strength. 
Made by heating Phenol on a water bath until liquified then add¬ 
ing one part water to nine parts Phenol. 

Trinitrophenol, called Picric Acid, is made by acting on Phenol 
with Nitric Acid. It should be kept in well stoppered bottles in a 
cool place, and in transportation it is usually mixed with 20% 
water for safety. It is used in 1% solutions for burns, also in 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


61 


urine analysis. It has been used internally in 1-grain doses as an 
antipyretic. 

Cresol (C7H70H), known as Cresylic Acid. It is a mixture of 
three cresols from Coal Tar. It is a constituent of Crude Carbolic 
Acid, from which it is separated by fractional distillation. It 
enters into Compound Solution of Cresol. 

Crude Carbolic Acid , not U. S. P. It is.a compound composed 
of Phenol and Cresol and is better than either as a disinfectant. 

Nahpthaline, known as Moth Balls, called Camphor Balls, not 
U. S. P. It is a Hydrocarbon obtained from Coal Tar. The dose is 
2 grains. 

Betanaphihol is a Phenol prepared from Naphthaline. When 
Naphthaline is heated with Sulphuric Acid two acids are obtained. 
The first, which comes at a low temperature, is known as Alpha- 
Naphthaline Sulphonic Acid; the second is Beta-naphthaline Sul- 
phonic Acid, and when it is mixed with KOH and HCL and 
washed, Betanaphthol is produced. Seen in colorless or pinkish 
crystals or scales and has a Phenol odor. Used in skin trouble 
and to retard the growth of bacteria. Dose is 2 grs. 

Bismuth Betanaphthol, known as Orphol. It is a greyish pow¬ 
der containing 75% Oxide of Bismuth. 

Phenolphthaleinum is Phenolphthalein, a dibasic Phenol deriva¬ 
tive. Made by heating 10 parts Phenol with 5 parts Phthalic 
Anhydride for 12 hours, then with Sulphuric Acid, and exhaust 
with boiling water and mix the residue with solution Sodium 
Hydroxide and precipitat with Acetic Acid. It is used as a pur¬ 
gative in one to eight grain doses. 

Phenylis Salicylas is Salol. It is a Salicylic Ester of Phenol. 
It is made by acting on Salicylic Acid with Phenol. It is a white 
crystaline powder, very soluble in Volatile Oils and Chloroform, 
but insoluble in water and Alcohol. It is an intestinal antiseptic, 
being decomposed in the intestines into Phenol and Salicylic Acid. 
The dose is 10 grains. 

Salicylic Acid is an organic acid prepared from Oil of Winter- 
green, also made from Phenol by acting on Sodium Phenol with 
Carbon Dioxide. It is insoluble in water and on that account its 


62 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


salts, such as Salicylate of Soda, is used. Dose, 10 grains. 

Resorcinol is Resorcin, is a diatomic Phenol made by fusing 
Sodium-Metabenzene-Disulphonate with Sodium Hydroxide. Also 
made by treating Asafetida with Caustic Potash. It is a white 
crystal and acquires a pink color on exposure to light and air. 
It is antiseptic, closely resembling Phenol in its action. Used 
mostly in skin troubles. Dose, internally, 2 grains. 

Antipyrine, known as Phenazone, is chemically Phenyl-dime- 
thyl-pyrozolon. It is analgesic in 5-grain doses and has a very 
depressing effect on the heart. 

Acetanalid, called Antifebrin, is made by heating Aniline and 
Glacial Acetic Acid and subliming. It is antipyretic in 5-grain 
doses. 

Methylthionine Chloridum is Methylene Blue. It is made by 
the action of Hydrogen Sulphide on an oxidation product of para- 
amido-dimethylaniline. It is a dark green powder soluble in water 
and Alcohol. It is an antiseptic, anodyne and antiperiodic. Dose, 
2.y 2 grains. 

Methylsalicylata , known as Oil of Wintergreen. It is made 
from Salicylic Acid, Methyl Alcohol and Sulphuric Acid by heat¬ 
ing them. It is found naturally in plants and mostly in Oil of 
Wintergreen and Oil of Sweet Birch. 

Benzosulphonidum is Saccharin. It is the anhydride of ortho- 
sulphamid-benzoic acid. It is made from the Coal Tar product. 
Toluene. It is a white powder, odorless and 500 times sweeter 
than sugar. It is used in diabetes in 3-grain doses. Its sale for 
beverages and foods is prohibited. 

Benzol (C6H6), called Benzene, is found in the most volatile 
portion of Coal Tar. Aniline or Phenylamine is obtained from it 
by acting on it with Nitric and Sulphuric Acids. 

Amines are formed by the replacement in Ammonia by Alcohol 
radicals. 

Amides are formed by the replacement of Hydrogen in Ammo¬ 
nia with acid radicals. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


63 


LECTURE No. 25 

Carbamide is Urea, is one of the end products of Metabolism. 
It is formed in the muscle but chiefly in the liver, and it is thought 
to be derived from Ammonium Carbamate by the successive loss 
of two molecules of water. It is prepared from serpent’s excre¬ 
ment or by heating Ammonium Cyanate. It has been used in 
medicine in T. B.’s and diuretic in J^-grain doses. 

Pyridin Bases are Aromatic Bases found in Coal Tar. Pyridin 
itself can be formed by the distillation of bone or from Nicotine. 
It is used in Denatured Alcohol and is the poisonous substance 
in Wool Alcohol. 

Organic Chemistry is the Chemistry of the Carbon Compounds, 
that is, substances of animal or vegetable origin. 

The main feature of Organic Compounds is that they consist 
of four elements: Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen, and Oxygen. The 
different arrangement of these elements in the molecule is divided 
into the following groups: Carbohydrates, Hydrocarbons, Alco¬ 
hols, Ethers, Esters, Aldehydes, Organic Acids, Keytones, 
Amines, and Amides. 

Carbohydrates are compounds containing 6 (or some multiple 
of it) atoms of Carbon with 0 and H in proportion to form water. 
Example, sugar or glucose. 

Hydrocarbons are the most extensive of Carbon Compounds. 
They are from Coal Tar or Petroleum. They contain Carbon and 
Hydrogen only. They are divided into two classes, Saturated and 
Unsaturated. Example, Methane CH4 Fatty Compounds or Chain 
Compounds, and the Unsaturated, Benzene or Aromatic Com¬ 
pounds. 

Alcohols are Hydrocarbons in which one or more Hydrogen 
atoms have been replaced by the Hydroxyl (OH). They are: 
mono, di, tri, or t^tra, according to the number of Hydroxyls they 
contain. 

Methyl Alcohol or Ethyl Alcohol are mono or primary Alcohols. 

Menthol is a Secondary Alcohol, or di. 

Glycerin is a Triatomic Alcohol. 


64 ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 

Ethers are the oxides of the Alcohol radicals. Ex., C2H50 is 
Ethyl Oxide. 

Esters , known as Compound Ethers, are made by boiling acids 
or Acid Chloride with Alcohol. Ex., Ethyl Nitrite. 

Aldehydes are compounds derived from Alcohols by the abstrac¬ 
tion of two Hydrogen atoms. Ex., CH20 is Formaldehyle. 

Amines are bodies derived from Ammonia by replacing one or 
more Hydrogen atoms with an Alcohol radical. 

Amides are formed by replacing the Hydrogen atom in Am¬ 
monia with an acid radical. 

Phenols are Benzene Hydroxides. When you replace one or 
more of the Hydrogen atoms in Benzene with OH, a Phenol is 
the result. 

Keytones are the Aldehydes of secondary alcohols. 

Primary Alcohols, when oxidized, change into Aldehydes. Sec¬ 
ondary Alcohols into Keytones. 

CH30H is Methyl Alcohol, C2H50H is Ethyl Alcohol, C6H50H 
is Phenyl Alcohol, C5H110H is Amyl Alcohol, C3H5(OH)3 is 
Glyceryl Alcohol. 

Fatty Acids and Fats are found in fixed oils and fats. We have 
two official: Oleic Acid, which is a yellow, oily liquid, and Stearic 
Acid, which is a colorless, waxy solid obtained from tallow. It 
enters into Glycerin Suppositories. 

Red Oil is the commercial Oleic Acid and is obtained as a by¬ 
product in the manufacture of candles, and the Official Oleic Acid 
is made from this. 

Empyreumatic Products are those made by destructive distilla¬ 
tion, such as Oil of Cade. Empyreuma means odors given off 
during destructive distillation. 

All Organic Acids contain the three elements C, O and H, be¬ 
cause they contain Carbon they are classed as Carbon Compounds. 




ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


65 


LECTURE No. 26 

Cellulose (C6H1005) Also called Liglin, is a term applied to 
the woody fibre of plants. It is seen in its purest form as cotton 
or linen. When this Cellulose is treated with Alkilies it under¬ 
goes several changes, one of which is mercerisation. (Mercer¬ 
ised Cotton being a substitute for silk.) When, it is treated with 
Strong Nitric Acid it forms explosive nitrates which are known 
as nitrocelluloses. 

Gun Cotton is the Hexanitrate of Cellulose. It is prepared by 
steeping Cotton or (Cellulose) in the strongest Sulphuric and 
Nitric Acids. Mixed with nitroglycerin, it forms what is known 
as blasting Gelatin. 

Pyroxylin commonly called Collodion Cotton, is made by 
treating cotton with Nitric and Sulphuric Acids, but it is the 
tetranitrate of Cellulose. It is souable Gun Cotton and re¬ 
sembles cotton in appearance. It should be kept in cartoons 
away from fire and light. It is used for making Collodion. 

When Cellulose is treated with strong Sulphuric Acid and 
Water, Parchment Paper is produced. 

Parchment Paper is used in Phermacy when the process of 
Dialysis is carried out. 

When Cellulose is distilled out of contact with air it is de¬ 
composed into Methyl Alchol, Formic Acid, Acetic Acid, 
Acetone and various Hydrocarbons. All of these products are 
obtained by the destructive distillation of wood. 

Cotton when pure will sink when placed on water. 

It is purified by washing in an alkaline solution, then in a 
solution of Chlorinated Lime, then in a weak solution of Hydro¬ 
chloric Acid, then wash thoroughly with water. The loss in 
weight is about 10%. 

Acetic Acid, HC2H302 is 36% strength. It is made by dis¬ 
tilling Oak Wood. The liquid first obtained is called Pyroli¬ 
gneous Acid or Crude Acetic Acid, which is treated with soda, 
ash and sulphuric acid and re-distilled. It is a clear, colorless 


66 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


liquid used for making the diluted Acetic Acid and enters into 
Syrup of Ipecac. 

Diluted Acetic Acid is 6% Strength. Made by mixing 5 oz. 
Acetic Acid with 26 ounces Distilled Water. It enters into 
Vinegar of Squills, Spirits Mindererus, and Bashams Mixture. 
The Dose is 30 minims. 

Glacial Acetic Acid, Called Glacial on account of its glassy 
appearience at low temperature. It is 99% Strength. It is 
made by distilling Acetate of Soda with Sulphuric Acid. It 
enters into Cerate of Cantharidies and Cantharidal Collodion. 
Used for Corns and Warts. 

No. 8 Acetic Acid is the 30%,, it is not U. S. P. \ The Sp. G. of 
the various Acetic acids are about the same and it is the only 
case where Specific Gravity cannot be relied upon. 

Trichloracetic Acid is an organic Acid it is 99% St. Made 
by distilling a mixture of Chloral Hydrate and Nitric Acid. It 
is used as a caustic. 

Pix Liquida is Tar. It is obtained by the destructive distil¬ 
lation of Pine Wood. It is usually obtained as a biproduct in the 
Mfg. of Charc'oal. The Syrup and Ointment are official. 

Oleum Picis Liquidae Rectificatum is rectified Oil of Tar, 
called Oil of Tar in U. S. P. 8th. 

Acetone is Chemically Dimethyl Keytone CH3COCH3. It is 
made by distilling Acetate of Lime. It is used in Mfg. of Chlo¬ 
roform, also as a solvent for fats. 

Creosotum is Creosote, known as Oil of Smoke. It is a mix¬ 
ture of Phenols, chiefly Guiacol and Gresol. It is obtained by 
distilling beech wood (Fagus Salvitica) Tar. It is Antic^ptic 
and Caustic. Enters into Creosote Water. 

Creosote Carbonate, called Creosotal, is a yellowish thick liquid 
used as a substitute for creosote in tuberculosis in ten gr. doses. 
It is odorless. 

Guaiacol... It is a colorless or yellowish Liquid obtained from 
Creosote or made artificially from Pyrocatechin. It is used in 
T. B. in 5 to 10 minim doses. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


67 


Guaiacol Carbonate is known as Duotal. It is a white powder 
given in 15gr. doses 

Methyl Alcohol CH30H, known as Wood Alcohol, Wood 
Naphtha and Pyroxylic Spirits. It is obtained by the dry distill¬ 
ation of Wood. It is a poison, and when taken internally pro¬ 
duces Blindness. 

Methylated Spirit , known as Denatured Alcohol, is made 
from Ethyal Alcohol, Wood Alcohol and Benzine. 

The Antidote for Wood Alcohol is Pilocarpine and artificial 
respiration. 

Acidum Oxalicum is Oxalic Acid, is official as a reagent. It 
is made by treating Sawdust with Caustic Soda and Caustic 
Potash. It can be made by acting on Starch or Sugar with 
Nitric Acid H2C204. The Antidote is Chalk, which forms in 
the Stomach an insoluble Oxolate of Lime, then give Emetics. 
It forms with Potash three Oxolates: The binoxolate and the 
quadroxolate are known as Salt of Sorrel or Salt of Lemon. 
They are sold to remove Iron-rust. Oxalic Acid is often sold 
for them but it is not correct. 

LECTURE No. 27 

Glucosum is Gl.ucose, called Syrupy Glucose. It is obtained 
by the incomplete Hydrolysis of Starch. 

Hydrolysis is a chemical process where a Chemical Compound 
takes up Hydron and Oxygen in the Proportion of forming 
water. Glucose and Grape Sugar are the same. Glucose being 
the liquid and Grape Sugar the solid. 

Saccharum is Cane Sugar. The formular is C12H22011. It 
is obtained from Sugar Cane and Sorghum. 

Rock Candy is crystalized Sugar. 

Caromel is Burnt Sugar, made by heating sugar until the 
sweet taste is destroyed. It is used as a coloring Agent. 

When Grapes are fermented we get Wine. When Apples are 
fermented we get Brandy. 

Sweet Wine contains a large amount of Sugar 


68 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Dry Wine written Sec. meaning Dry, is one weak in Alcohol. 

Rough Wine contains tannin. 

There is, during the process of fermentation in making Wine 
from 1 Grapes, a substance deposited on the side of the cask a 
crust called Argols. 

Argols or Crude Tarter is purified we get Potassium Bitar¬ 
trate or Cream of Tartar. The dose is 30 grains and used as 
a refrigerant. 

Tartaric Acid H2C4H406 is an organic Acid prepared from 
Argols. It is a clear crystal and contains no water of Crystal¬ 
lization and that is why it is used in making Seidlitz Powders. 
There are three Salts of Tartaric Acid official, Potassium 
Bitartrate, Antimony and Potassium Tartrate and Potassium 
and Sodium Tartrate (Rochelle Salts) 

Limonis Succus is Lemon Juice. It contains 8% Citric Acid. 

Succus Citri is Lime Juice. 

Citric Acid, is an Organic Acid prepared from Lemon or Lime 
Juice and contains one Molecule of Water. It is a translucant 
Crystal. 

Syrupus Fuscus, is Treackle called Molasses. Is made by 
evaporating Sugar. 

A test; When Tartaric Acid is heated it gives off odors re¬ 
sembling burning sugar. Citric Acid will not. 

Succus Promorum is Apple Juice. 

Alkaloids are often called the Basic principles of Plants. They 
resemble the Alkalies by uniting with acids to form salts. They 
exist in plants usually combined with Tannic Acid. 

Morphine is combined in Opium with Meconic Acid. 

Cinchona is combined in Quinine (reverse) with Kinic Acid. 

Hydrastine in Hydrastis is not combined. 

Alkaloids are precipitated from their solutions by Alkalies, 
Alkaline Salts, Tannic Acid, Donovans Solution and Meyers 
Reagent. 

A Reagent is anything that produces a reaction to determin 
the presence or absence of a substance. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 69 

Myers Reagent is composed of Corrosive Sublimate and 
Iodide of Potash. It is Potassio Mercuric Iodide. 

A General process for separating Alkaloids from plants: 
Exhaust the plant with Alcohol, shake with Ether, then with 
Ammonia Water and let stand and filter. 

Morphine Sulphate and Morphine Hydrochloride are the two 
salts of Morphine official. The average dose is Vs grain. 

Codeine is known as Methyl Morphine. It is prepared from 
Morphine by Methylation. 

Codeine Sulphate and Codeine Phosphate are the two Salts of 
Codeine. The average dose is Yz grain. 

Ethylmorphine Hydrochloride is known as Dionin. It is pre¬ 
pared from Morphine by Ethylation. The dose is X A grain. 

Diacetylmorphine is known as Heroin. Made by treating Mor¬ 
phine with Acetyl Chloride and washing with Carbonate of Soda. 
The dose is 1 /20 grain Expectorant. 

Apomorphine Hydrochloride is the Hydrochloride of an Alkaloid 
prepared from Morphine by the extraction of one molecule of 
Water. It has no Narcodic effects but is expectorant in 1/20 
grain doses and the most powerful emetic known in 1/12 grain 
doses. 

Diacetylmorphine Hydrochloride is made by mixing Heroin 
with distilled Water neutralizing with Hydrochloric Acid and 
crystallizing. It is used like Heroin in 1/20 grain doses. 

The following Salts of Qinnine are official: Quinine Sulphata, 
Quinine Bisulphate, Quinine Hydrochloride, Quinine Hydro¬ 
bromide and Quinine Salicyate. The average dose of them! are 
1 y 2 grains. The Antiamalaria dose is 15 grains. 

We have two compounds of Quinine. The first is Quinine and 
Ura. It contains 58% Quinine and is very soluable in water. It 
is used Hypodermically for Malaria in 15 grain doses. It is also 
used as a local Anesthetic. 

2nd. Is Quinine Tannate. It is a compound of Quinine and 
Tannic Acid and contains 35% Quinine. It enters in Troches 
of Quinine N. F. 


70 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Quinine Bisulphate is the acid sulphate of Quinine, it is 80 
times more soluable and contains 15% less Alkaloid than the 
Sulphate. It is soluable in 9 parts of Water and 23 parts of 
Alcohol. 

Quinine , Quinidine, Cinchonine and Cinchonidine are the most 
important Alkaloids of Cinchona. Quinidine is N. F., Cinchonin 
Sulphate and Cinchonidine Sulphate are both U. S. P. Dose 
2J4 grains. 

Cinchonidine is obtained as a biproduct in the Mfg. of Quinine. 

Strychnine is an Alkaloid of Nux Vomica. It is seen in both 
powder and Crystal form. Used mostly for preparing the Salts. 

Strychnine Sulphate and Strychnine Nitrate are Salts of 
Strychnine. The dose is 1 /40 grain. 

Physostigmine is an Alkaloid from Ordeal Bean. The Sal¬ 
icylate is official. 

Physostigmine Salicylate, known as E serine Salicylate is a 
powerful Myotic and spinal depresent. Dose is 1/60 grain. 

Atrophine is an Alkaloid obtained from Belladonna and some 
other plants of the Solanaceae Family. It is used to dialate the 
pupil of the eye. The properties are about the same as Bella¬ 
donna. The dose is 1 /160 to 1 /60 grain. The Sulphate is official 
and the dose of the Sulphate is the same as the Alkaloids. 

LECTURE No. 28 

A test; Apomorphine should be rejected if it produces a 
greenish color when shaken with 100 parts of distilled Water. 

Morphine Acetate is the most soluable of all Salts of Mor¬ 
phine. It loses its Acid easily and if it fails to desolve in water 
add a dorp of Acetic Acid. 

Codein Phosphate is more soluable than Codein Sulphate, 
otherwise they are the same. 

Cocaine is an Alkaloid from Erythroxylon Coca leaves. Co¬ 
caine Hydrochloride is its Salt. It is used as an anesthetic, 
anodyne and sedative. Dose X A grain. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


71 


Colchicine is an Alkaloid from Colchicum. It is soluable in 22 
parts of Water. The dose is 1 /120 grain. It is more soluable 
in water than any other Alkaloid. 

Cotarnine Hydrochloride, called Stypticin, is prepared from 
Cotarnine which is an Alkaloid prepared from Narcotine. Used 
to stop bleeding. Dose 1 grain 

Homatropine Hydrobromide is the Hpdrobrimide of Homat- 
ropine, which is an Alkaloid obtained by the condensation of 
Tropine and Mandelic Acid. It is the most valuable Mydratic 
because the effects subside more rapidly. Dose is 1/120 grain. 

Pilocarpus, known as Jaborandi, containe an Alkaloid called 
Pilocarpine and its Salts are Pilocarpine Hydrochloride and 
Nitrate. The dose of both is 1 /12 grain. They are used as 
Diaphoretics, Diuretics and Sialogogues. The Nitrate differs 
from the Hydrochloride in not turning black when triturated 
with Calomel and is perminant in the air. 

Scopolamine is an Alkaloid obtained from varions plants of 
Solanaceae and the Hydrobromide is official and it is identical 
with Hyoscine Hydrobromide which is from Hyoscyamus. It is 
used as a hypnotic and sedative in 1/200 grain. 

Hyoscyamine is an Alkaloid obtained from Hyoscyamus and 
others of the Solanaceae. Hyoscyamine Hydrobromide is 
official Salt. It is used as Narcotic and Sedative. Dose 1 /200 
of a grain. 

Veratrine is a mixture of Alkaloids, obtained from Asagrea 
officinalis, which is Sabadilla seed. It is used externally in neu¬ 
ralgia, rheumatism, ect. Very poisonous. It is Strenutartory. 

Juvine is the Alkaloid from Veratrum. Veratrum is American 
Helebore used as Cardiac sedative. 

Scoparious is Broom and contains an Alkaloid called Spar- 
tine and the Sulphate its official, (not) Spartine is a liquid 
Alkaloid and represents the cardiac principles. Scoparious also 
contains a Glucoside called Scoparin, which is the diuretic 
principles. 

Hydrastine is an Alkaloid of Hydrastis and its Salt is Hyd- 


72 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


rastine Hydrochloride. It is used as an alterative, tonic and 
stimulant. The dose is 1 /6 grain. 

Hydrastinine Hydrochloride is an artificial Alkaloidal Salt, 
that is it is prepared from an artificial Alkaloid. It is an oxy¬ 
tocic in doses of 1 grain. 

Emetine is an Alkaloid of Ipecac. The Salt of it is Emetine 
Hpdrochloride. It is used in Dysentery and Pyorrhoea. The 
dose is 1 /3 gr. 

Betaueucaine Hydrochloride is a synthetic derivative of Pipre- 
idine and it is used like Cocaine but does not come under the 
Narcotic law. The use is in Ointments and in Eye Solutions. 

Caffeine is a feebly basic substance obtained from Tea, Coffee 
or Guarana. It has no definite chemical Salts but Citrated Caf¬ 
feine is official. 

Caffeine is a nerve stimulant. 

Caffeine Sodio Benzoate is also U. S. P. It is a mixture of 
Caffeine and Sodium Benzoate. It is used as a Diuretic and Car¬ 
diac stimulant and on account of its solubility can be used 
hypodermically. Dose 3 gr. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


73 


LECTURE No. 29 

Fermentation. When certain organic bodies are subjected to 
the action of water, air and a warm temperature, decomposition 
takes place, which is accomplished by minute organisms. When 
useful products are formed, it is called Fermentation, and when 
worthless products are formed, it is called Putrifaction. 

Femients are divided into two classes: Organized and Unorgan¬ 
ized. The organized are such as bacteria, yeast and mold growths, 
and the unorganized like pepsin, pancreatin, and diastase. 

Vinus Fermentation is when sugar is converted into Alcohol 
by the aid of a ferment. 

Alcohol , C2H5oH, known as Rectified Spirit of Wine, often 
written S. V. R., meaning Spiritus Vini Rectificatus. It should 
contain 94.9% by volume of Ethyl Alcohol. It is made from corn 
or potatoes or other substances containing starch or sugar. If 
made from starch it is first converted into sugar by the action of 
the ferment Diastase, and the sugar is converted into maltose and 
then into Alcohol, and then purified by distillation. The chief 
impurity in Alcohol is Amyl Alcohol, known as Fusel Oil, and it 
is removed by digesting with charcoal and distilling. It can be 
deprived of its odor by treating with Permanganate of Potash and 
then distilling. The Sp. G. of Alcohol is .816 at 15.6 degrees, and 
.810 at 25 degrese. 

Dehydrated Alcohol was official under the name of Absolute 
Alcohol. It is 99% strength Alcohol and 1% water. 

Cologne Spirit is purified Alcohol. 

Dilute Alcohol contains 49j4% by volume of Alcohol at 15.6 d. 
Made by mixing equal volumes of Alcohol and water. If you mix 
500 mils, of water with 500 mils, of Alcohol you will have 970 
mils, finished product. The loss of 30 mils, is due to the rise of 
temperature and contraction in volume. 

The U. S. Proof Spirits, called 100-proof, contains about 50% by 
volume of Alcohol. 

Aether, called Ether, called Sulphuric Ether, is chemically 
Ethyl Oxide (C2H5)20. It is 96% strength. Sp. G. .716. Boils at 


74 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


35.5 degrees. It is made by acting on Alcohol with Sulphuric Acid 
and distilling. It is a transparent, colorless liquid. Should be 
kept from fire and light, as it is very explosive and light decom¬ 
poses it. It should be kept in partially filled containers and should 
not be poured from one vessel to another in the presence of gas 
light or fire. Its vapor is 2 x /2 times heavier than air. It is a valu¬ 
able solvent. It is used as an anesthetic and preferred to Chloro¬ 
form, as it does not depress the heart. It should not be used as 
an anesthetic if the container has been opened longer than 24 
hours. The dose is 1 mil. It enters into Hoffman’s Drops and 
Anodyne. 

AethilisChloridum (C2H5C1), Ethyl Chloride, known as Kelene. 
It is a haloid derivative of Ethyl. Made by the action of HC1 
on Absolute Alcohol. It should be kept in glass containers away 
from light. It is used as a local anestetic by freezing. 

Bromoform (CHBr3) is a heavy liquid with an ethereal odoi*. 
Made by acting on Bromine and Alcohol in the presence of an 
Alkali. Used principally in whooping cough. The dose is 3 
minims. 

Aethilis Carbamas, Ethyl Carbamate, known as Urethane. 
Made by the action of Alcohol on Urea. It is seen in colorless 
crystals or scales, odorless with a saline taste. Used as a hypnotic 
in 15-gr. doses. 

Chloroform (CHC13) is 99% strength. The remainder is Alco- 

"V ” 

hoi. Chemically it is Trichlormethane. It is a colorless liquid and 
should be kept in amber-colored bottles in a cool place, because on 
exposure to light and air it liberates Chlorine. It is not explosive 
but care should be used in vaporizing it before a flame, as poison¬ 
ous gases are produced. It burns with a green flame. Its main 
source is from Acetone. It can also be made by acting on Chloral 
with an Alkali. It is soluble in 210 parts of water. It has a 
Sp. G. 1.47. Dose, 5 minims. 

Chloroform is contaminated with an impurity called Clorinated 
Pyrogenous Oil, which renders it unfit for use as an anesthetic 
and it must be removed. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


75 


Chloroform Venale is commercial Chloroform. Spirit Chloro¬ 
form, liniment and water are official. 

Chloral Hydratum, Chloral Hydrate, is made by passing Chlo¬ 
rine Gas through Absolute Alcohol for six weeks. It is a crystal¬ 
line solid seen in crystals. It is chemically Trichloraldehyde. It 
contains one molecule of water, used as hypnotic, sedative and 
antispasmodic. The dose is 8 grs. When it is mixed with salts 
of the Alkaline Metals, such as Bromide of Soda, the odor of 
Chloroform is developed. 

Hexamethylenamenia, Hexamethyltetramine, called Cystotro- 
pine, Urotropin, Cystogen, and Formin. It is made by the action 
of Ammonia on Formaldehyde. It is soluble in water, slightly so 
in Alcohol. It is used as a urinary antiseptic, diuretic and anti- 
lithic. Dose is 4 grains. 

Paraldehyde is a colorless liquid used as a hypnotic in 30 minim 
doses. It is made by passing HC1 gas through Aldehyde. It has 
strong, pungent odor and a burning taste and on that account it 
is usually prescribed with Elixirs. 

Paraformaldehyde, known as Paraform, called Trioxymethy- 
lene, is made from Formaldehyde. It is seen in white powder or 
masses. Used as an antiseptic in 8 gr. 

Sulphonemethane, known as Sulphonal. It is a chemical com¬ 
pound obtained from Acetone. It is a white powder, odorless and 
nearly tasteless. Used as a somnifacient in 12-gr. doses. 

Sulphonethylmethane is Trional. It is colorless, odorless and 
seen in white crystalline scales, very similar to Sulphonal. 

Saccharures are preparations made by saturating sugar with a 
tincture and powdering. None official. 

Oleosaccharures are preparations made by adding one drop of 
Volatile Oil to 30 grains of sugar. Very convenient method for 
administering medicine to children. 

Young's Rule for administering medicine to children: Add 12 
to the age of the child, then divide the sum by the age and divide 
the adult dose by the figures thus obtained. 


76 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


LECTURE No. 30 

In giving Castor Oil or Calomel to Children, you do not follow 
any rules. They can be given in larger doses according to age. 
In giving Opium or narcotics, not more than half the proportion 
obtained by Young’s Rule should be given. It is safe to say that 
a child one month old 1/20 of the adult does, and 3 months old 
1/15, 6 months old 1/10, one year old 1/8. 

Volatile Oils are called Essential Oils. They are found in vari¬ 
ous parts of plants and constitute the odorous principle. 

We have one Volatile Oil from the Animal Kingdom. It is 
Oil of Ambergris. 

We have one Volatile Oil made by destructive distillation, Oil 
of Amber. It is a fossil resin from pine trees found in Europe. 

When Volatile Oils are first prepared they are colorless, but on 
exposure to air they assume various colors. Example, Oil of 
Peppermint turns yellow, Oil of Cinnamon turns brown, and Oil 
of Worm Wood turns green. 

When Volatile Oils are exposed to light and air they become 
thick and heavy. Ozone is developed, which bleaches the cork 
white, and there is deposited a resinous substance and the oil is 
said to be resinified, therefore all Volatile Oils should be kept in 
a dark place. 

Volatile Oils are often adulterated with fixed oils to increase 
their weight. To detect this, use the paper test. Alcohol and 
Ether are the best solvents for Volatile Oils. Nitric Acid and 
Iodine destroy them. Alkalies have no effect on them. 

Enfleurage is a term used when the odors of flowers are ex¬ 
tracted by the use of fats. These layers of fats are called Pomades 
and are used to make a class of perfumes called Extracts. Cologne 
is made by adding Volatile Oils to Alcohol. 

Volatile Oils are divided into four classes: First, is the Ter- 
penes, with a formula C10H16; example, Oils of Lemon, Turpen¬ 
tine. and Orange. Second, is the Oxygenated, which contain 
C-O-H; example, Oil of Cinnamon. Third, is the Sulphurated, or 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


77 


those containing Sulphur, Oil of Mustard. Fourth, is the Nitro- 
genated, or those containing Hydrocyanic Acid, Oil of B. A. 

Oi/s of Lemon and Orange are prepared from the peel of the 
fruits and can be prevented from becoming terebenthinated if 
they are mixed with an equal volume of Alcohol. If either oil 
has the odor of Turpentine it should not be dispensed. Oil of 
Lemon contains 4% Aldehydes calculated as Citral. 

Oil of Peppermint is distilled from Peppermint and should con¬ 
tain o0% menthol. When Oil of Peppermint is frozen it becomes 
a crystalline mass, which shows that it contains the Menthol. 

Menthol is a secondary Alcohol obtained from Oil of Pepper¬ 
mint. It is seen in colorless crystals with a characteristic odor, 
and when rubbed with equal weight Camphor, Chloral, Thymol or 
Phenol it liquifies. 

Oleum Pini Pumlions is a Volatile Oil called Oil of Dwarf Pine 
Needles. It is distilled from the fresh leaves of Pinus Montana. 

Oleum Rosmarini is Oil of Rosemary is a Volatile Oil distilled 
from fresh flowering tops of Rosemarinus officinalle. It enters 
into Soap Liniment and Compound Tr. of Lavender. 

When Thyme is first distilled we get a red oil known to the 
trade as Oil of Origanum, and when this is distilled we get a 
colorless Volatile Oil of Thyme. 

Oil of Eucalyptus is a Volatile Oil distilled from Eucalyptus 
leaves. It contains 70% Eucalyptol, which is called Cineol. 

Oil of Cassia is the same as Oil of Cinnamon. The Chinese Oil 
of Cinnamon is the one official. Cinnaldehyde is synthetic Oil of 
Cinnamon. 

Oil of Cloves contains 82% Eugenol, which is a phenol and 
usually prepared synthetically and for that reason it is called 
Artificial Oil of Cloves. 

Oil of Sassafras contains Safrol which was official as Artificial 
Oil of Sassafras. 

Oil of Anise, also called Oil of Star Anise and Oil of Fennel, 
contain a principle called Anethol. Both of these oils become 
solid during cold weather and this solid portion is Anethol, and 
the U. S. P. states that they should be warmed before dispensing. 


78 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Methyl Salicylate is the same as Oil of Wintergreen. It can be 
made from the Sweet Birch Bark or Gaultheria Leaves or pre¬ 
pared synthetically, but the U. S. P. states that the label must 
show its source. It is known as Oil of Teaberry, Oil of Chicker- 
berry and Oil of Partridgeberry. It is the heaviest Volatile Oil, 
having a Sp. G. 1.185. Volatile Oils are usually lighter than 
water. 

Benzaldehydrum is sythetic Oil of Bitter Almond. It is used 
for flavoring as it contains no Hydrocyanic Acid. It is made from 
Toluene by acting on it with Chlorine and Magnesium Oxide. It 
is 85% pure. 

Eugenol is synthetic Oil of Cloves. The last three is official, 
but the next are not. Cinnaldehydrum, Artificial Oil of Cinnamon, 
and Safrollum, Artificial Oil of Cinnamon. Oil of Camphor is 
obtained as a byproduct in manufacturing Camphor. It is simi¬ 
lar to Oil of Sassafras and is used to adulterate it. 

Amygdalae Amara is Bitter Almond. It contains a ferment 
called Emulsin and a ferment called Amygdalin, and when they 
are macerated in water they act on each other and form HCN 
and Volatile Oil of Bitter Almond. 

Oil of Bitter Almond contains from 2 to 4% HCN. The dose is 
y minim. When it is allowed to stand for sometime it assumes 
an acid reaction due to the formation of Benzoic Acid, and should 
not be dispensed. The spirit and water are U. S. P. 

Oleum Sinapis is Volatile Oil of Mustard. Made by macerating 
black mustard seed in water which causes the Glucoside Sinigrin 
and the ferment My rosin to act on each other and form the Vola¬ 
tile Oil, which is then distilled off. It is used externally and the 
dose is Vs minim. It must contain 92% Allyliso r thiocyanate, 
which is its chemical name. 

Oil of Erigeron, known as Oil of Fleabane, not U. S. P., is a 
volatile oil used as Hemostatic in uterine Hemorrhages in 15-drop 
doses. It can be distinguished from Oil of Turpentine and Oil of 
Fireweed by being soluble in equal parts water. It is often adul¬ 
terated with them. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


79 

Oil Chenopodium is Oil of American Worm Seed and is used 
as anthelmentic in 3-minim doses. 

LECTURE No. 31 

Purified Talc , called Talc or French Chalk or Soapstone. It is 
Magnesium Silicate, found in large quantities in N. C. It is a 
greyish white powder insoluble in water and for that reason it is 
used as a filtering agent, and the U. S. P. directs that it should 
be not finer than a No. 100 powder. 

Piperin is a feeble basic substance obtained from black pepper 
and should be yellow in color, due to adhering oil and resin and 
they give it is value. When it is white it has no value. 

Tumua Aphrodisiaca is Damiana; not U. S. P. 

Acid Boricum, Boric Acid, called Boracic Acid, is the only solid 
inorganic acid. It is a fine white powder or crystals having a 
slight acid reaction. It is made by acting on Borax with HC1. 
It is soluble in four parts of Glycerin and 18 parts of water. 
We mean by that that one gramme will dissolve in 18 mils, of 
water. When it is heated to 100 degrees Metaboric Acid is pro¬ 
duced. A solution of Boric Acid burns with a greenish flame. The 
dose is 8 grs. The Ointment and Glycerite is official. 

LECTURE No. 32 

All Dilute Acids are 10% strength, except Dilute Acetic which 
is 6%. Dilute Hydrocyanic is 2% and Dilute Nitro Hydrochloric 
is 22%. All acids, strong or dilute, when taken internally should 
be well diluted and taken through a straw or glass tube to pre¬ 
vent injury to the teeth. 

Inorganic Acids are known as Mineral Acids. They are the 
acids of Inorganic Chemistry. Combinations of Hydrogen, as 
well as H & O yield these acids (with non-metallic elements). 
They all contain Hydrogen and all or part of it is capable of 
being replaced by a metal. Acids are called the Salts of Hydro¬ 
gen. Inorganic Acids are divided into two classes: 


80 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


First is Hydroacids, often called Binary Acids. They do not 
contain oxygen. Ex., Hydrochloric Acid HC1, etc. 

The second class are called Oxyacids, known as Ternary Acids. 
They contain O. 

Acids have a sour taste and a corrosive action. They will turn 
blue litmus paper red. With the exception of Boric Acid, all In¬ 
organic Acids are liquid. 

The following Hydroacids are official: Dilute Hydriodic (HI) 
9H to 10^2% strength, Dilute Hydrobromic Acid (HBr.), Hydro¬ 
chloric Acid (HC1), Dilute HC1. 

The following Oxyacids are official: Hypophosphorous HPH202 
(30%) and the Dilute; Nitric Acid, 68% strength (HN03); 
Nitrohydrochloric, 18 Nitric and 82 HC1, and the Dilute; Phos¬ 
phoric (H3P04), 85% and Dilute; Sulphuric (H2S04) and 
Dilute; Aromatic Sulphuric. 

Hydrochloric Acid , HC1, known as Muriatic Acid, also called 
Spirit of Salt, 32%. It is made by acting on Salt with Sulphuric 
Acid, 2NaCl plus H2S04—MCI plus NaCl plus NaHS04. The 
dose is 5 to 10 minims. 

Hydrochlorate and Muriate are the same. 

Commercial Hydrochloric Acid has no definite strength. It is 
not official and has no medicinal value. Its yellow color is due to 
a trace of iron. 

When the stopper is left out of the bottle of HC1 and the fumes 
arise, they become white, due to the ammonia in the air, and 
forming Ammonium Chloride. 

Dilute Hydrobromic Acid, Hbr. Made by distilling Potassium 
Bromide, Sulphuric Acid and water together. It is used as a 
jiervine and hepatic in 15-minim doses. 

Dilute Hydriodic Acid , HI, is made by mixing Iodide of Potash 
and Hypophosphite of Potash in water by aid of heat. Then dis¬ 
solve the Tartaric Acid in dilute Alcohol and mix the two solu¬ 
tions and place on ice for several hours. Then filter and evaporate 
the Alcohol with little heat and make up loss with distilled water. 
The Hypophosphite of Potash is used to prevent loss of Iodine 
and decoloration. The dose is 5 to 10 drops. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


81 


Phosphoric Acid, H3P04, is 85% strength, often called Syrupy 
Phosphoric Acid on account of its syrupy appearance. It is misci¬ 
ble in all proportions with water or Alcohol and its solutions give 
a strong acid reaction. It produces a yellow precipitate with 
Silver Nitrate. It is Tribasic. The dilute acid is a tonic and 
refrigerant in 30-minim doses. 

Hypophosphorous Acid, H3P02. is 30%. Made by acting on 
Barium Hypophosphite with Sulphuric Acid. It is a colorless 
liquid used for preparing the dilute acid. 

Dilute Hypophosphorous Acid was introduced into the U. S. P. 
as a reducing agent. When added to Syrup of Iodide of Iron it 
prevents decomposition and when added to Syrup Hypophosphites 
it aids solubility. 

Nitric Acid, HN03, is 68%. It is often called Aqua Fortis 
(strong water). It is made by acting on Nitrate of Soda with 
Sulphuric Acid, NaN03 plus H2S04—NaHS4 plus HN03. The 
dose is 3 minims well diluted. When it is applied to the skin it 
produces a yellow color due to the formation of Xanthroproteic 
Acid. It is a colorless fuming liquid. It dissolves copper with a 
blue solution. It dissolves mercury, silver and other metals with 
evolutions of red fumes by which it can easily be detected. 

LECTURE No. 33 

Acidum Nitrohydrochloricum, Nitrohydrochloric Acid, called 
Nitromuriatic Acid, often called Aqua Rego (crown water) be¬ 
cause it will dissolve gold. The reason it will dissolve gold is due 
to the free Chlorine it contains. It is made by mixing 18 volumes 
of Nitric Acid with 82 volumes of Hydrochloric Acid. It must be 
made in a glass vessel and let stand until effervescence has 
ceased, then pour into amber-colored bottles with glass stoppers 
and the bottle must not be more than half filled, on account of 
escaping gas which would burst the bottle. It should never be 
placed in the bottle or dispensed until all effervescence stops, 
which usually requires about 24 hours. The Nitrosyl Chloride and 
free Chlorine are developed during this time. It is a golden yel- 


82 ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 

low liquid with a strong odor of Chlorine. The dose is 3 minims 
well diluted. 

Caution . This acid should never be dispensed in combination 
with infusions or tinctures to avoid explosion; that is, the bottle 
would burst in the patient’s hands. It is used as a hepatic. 

Dilute Nitrohyclrochloric Acid is made by mixing Nitric and 
Hydrochloric Acids, allowing them to stand until all effervescence 
ceases (24 hours), then adding water. This must be made accord¬ 
ing to the above and not by the rapid method of adding the water 
at once, as it would not produce the official preparation. It is a 
colorless liquid with a faint odor of Chlorine. The dose is 15 
minims. The U. S. P. states that the strong acid must not be dis¬ 
pensed unless it will immediately liberate Iodine when one drop 
of acid is added to a solution of Iodide of Potash 1 to 5, and the 
Dilute 5 drops to a solution 1 to 5. 

Sulphuric Acid, H2S04, is 94% strength, Sp. G. 1.83. It is 
made by burning Sulphur or Iron Pyrites and allowing the prod¬ 
ucts of combustion, which is Sulphur Dioxide (S02), to mix with 
nitrous fumes obtained by the decomposition of Sodium Nitrate, 
which changes the S02 into S03 and this is mixed with water 
and makes H2S04. This is called the Lead Chamber Process. 
When it is made from Iron Pyrites it is often contaminated with 
Arsenic and for that reason Sulphur is preferred. Phosphoric 
Acid and all Phosphates are liable to be contaminated with Ar¬ 
senic, due to the fact that Phosphoric Acid is made by acting on 
Phosphorous with Sulphuric Acid. 

Aromatic Sulphuric Acid , called Elixir of Vitriol. Made by 
carefully adding H2S04 to Alcohol and adding Tr. Ginger and 
Oil of Cinnamon. The dose is 15 minims for night sweats. It was 
used as an excepient for Quinine Pills. It is 20% strength. 

Sulphuric Acid is called Oil of Vitriol. The Aromatic, Elixir 
Vitriol, Copper Sulph., Blue Vitriol, Iron Sulphate, Green Vitriol, 
Manganese Sulphate, Pink Vitriol, Iron and Ammonium Sul¬ 
phate, Violet Vitriol, Sulphate of Soda, Vitriolated Soda. 

Sulphurous Acid , H2S03, is 6%. Made by distilling a mixture 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


83 


of Charcoal, water and Sulphuric Acid. It is used largely to pre¬ 
vent fermentation in the preservation of foodstuff. 

Sulphur Dioxide , S02, called Sulphurous Oxide and Sulphurous 
Anhydride. It is a colorless gas having powerful bleaching quali¬ 
ties. It is produced by burning Sulphur in contact with air or 
oxygen. It is found in small quantities in large cities, coming 
from the Sulphur in the coal that is burned. 

The Antidote for Inorganic Acids is Calcined Magnesia or Alka¬ 
lies. Never use water as that intensifies it. If spilled on hands, 
use Calcined Magnesia. 

Antidote for Alkaloids is Tannic Acid and Emetics. 

Anesthetics are agents which temporarily destroy sensation. 
They are divided in two classes: General Anesthetics, such as 
Ether and Chloroform; Local, such as Cocaine and Ethyl Chloride. 

A test to distinguish Morphine from Quinine: Nitric Acid pro¬ 
duces a red color with Morphine. 

LECTURE No. 34 

Fluid Extracts. In the 8th U. S. P. we had 85; in the 9th we 
have 49. In the 8th we had three made with a menstrum of 
Acetic Acid and water, but they are now made different. They 
were Lobelia, Squills and Sanguinaria, the latter is now N. F. 

Lobelia , the menstrum, is now 5 parts Acetic Acid, 50 parts 
Alcohol and the remainder water. 

Sqills is now 2 parts Alcohol and one part water. 

Sanguinaria, the menstrum, is Citric Acid, Alcohol and water. 

The main advantages of Fluid Extracts: Permanence, concen¬ 
tration, and the uniform relation existing between the F. E. and 
drug. They are now made by four-type process in the U. S. P.— 
A, B, C, and D. 

Type “A” includes those made with a menstrum of water and 
alcohol or alcohol. Example, Buchu, Belladonna, and Digitalis. 
Twenty-seven are made this way. 

Type “B” is those that contain Glycerin or an acid in the men¬ 
strum. The Glycerin is used to soften the drug and as a solvent 
for the Tannin and acts as a preventive from precipitation. The 


84 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


addition of an acid is to convert the alkaloids of the drug into 
soluble salts. Eleven F. E.’s are made by Type “B.” Ipecac, 
Cinchona and Ergot contain HC1 in the menstrum. 

Type“C” is those made by fractional percolation. We have three 
made by this process: Aconite, Aromatic Fluid Extract and Fluid 
Extract Bitter Orange Peel. 

Type “D” is made by extracting the drug with boiling water, 
concentrating and adding alcohol: Cascara, Frangula and Triti- 
cum. 

We have five made special processes. They are: First, Aro¬ 
matic Cascara, made by adding Magnesium Oxide to the bark and 
moisten this with boiling water and macerate for two hours, then 
percolate, evaporate the percolate and while warm add Extract 
of Licorice, cool and add Glycerin, Saccharin dissolved in alcohol 
containing Oils of Cinnamon, Anise, Coriander and Methyl Salicy¬ 
late; then add water qs. It only contains 25% alcohol.. 

Fluid Extract of Licorice and Senega are examples of F. E.’s 
with Alkaline menstrums. Licorice contains Ammonia Water to 
develop up the sweet principle and Senega to dissolve the Pictin. 
Chloroform Water is used in F. E. Licorice in place of plain water 
because the Chloroform is a preservative. 

Fluid Extract of Colchicum Seed is first percolated with Benzin 
which romoves the fixed oil, then proceed as in the Type “A.” 

Fluid Extract Staphisagriae is chilled and filtered after per¬ 
colation to remove the oil. 

Type “A” Process is as follows: Take 1,000 grms. of the drug 
and moisten with sufficient menstrum and let stand for six hours 
in the percolator, then add more menstrum and when it begins to 
drop, cut off and let stand for 48 hours, then percolate at the 
rate of 10 drops per minute until you get 850 mils., set this aside 
and continue percolation until the drug is exhausted and take 
this liquid and evaporate to a soft extract and dissolve in the 
reserved portion, then add alcohol to bring up to the required 
amount, 1,000 mils. Percolation with incomplete exhaustion is 
percolating in the usual way but when the amount has reached 
three-fourths the weight of the drug it is stopped. F. E.’s are 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


85 


made from green drugs by expressing the juice and adding to the 
menstrum and percolating, but this is not U. S. P. 

A Precipitate is sometimes in Fluid Extracts, caused by heat 
in making or the temperature being changed. They should not 
be filtered. 

The Official Arsenic Antidote is Ferric Hydroxide with Magne¬ 
sium Oxide, made by mixing Solution of Ferric Sulphate with 
water in one bottle, then rub up MgO with water and keep in 
another bottle and when wanted for use mix the two solutions. 
The chemical change in this mixture is the Ferric Sulphate is 
converted into Ferric Hydroxide and the Magnesium Oxide is 
converted into Magnesium Sulphate and Magnesium Hydroxide. 
This is called a chemical antidote because Arsenate of Iron is 
formed in the stomach and it is thrown out by metics. Dose,4 
ounces. 

The antidote for Ammonia is weak acids, like vinegar. For 
Phosphorous is old or oxidized Oil of Turpentine; any other oil 
intensifies it. Paris Green is Arsenite of Copper, so give the 
arsenic anitdote. 

LECTURE No. 35 

Hydrogen, symbol H, valence 1, atomic weight 1, molecular 
weight 2. It is a gaseous element of the highest importance, being 
the standard for atomic and molecular weight at one time. It is 
the lightest element known. It is 14.5 times lighter than air. It 
is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas and forms the following 
corresponding acids: When it unites with Chlorine it forms 
HC1, when it unites with Iodine it forms Hydriodic Acid HI, when 
it unites with Bromine it forms Hydrobromic Acid HBr., when it 
unites with Fluorin it forms Hydrofluoric Acid. Hydrogen burns 
with a bright light. It is the most diffusible of all gases. 

Diffusion is the property gases have with mixing with each 
other, even in opposition to force. Light gases diffuse quicker 
than heavy ones. 

The Laiv of Diffusion of Gases: Gases diffuse inversely pro¬ 
portional to the square roots of their Specific Gravity. V. E. H. 


86 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


1 Oxygen 16. The square root of them is 1 and 4, therefore 
Hydrogen diffuses 4 times than that of 0. It can be made by 
acting on Zinc with Sulphuric Acid, Zn plus H2S04 equals ZnS04 
plus H2. But Hydrogen made in this manner is more or less 
impure, and can be purified by first passing through Lead Nitrate, 
then Silver Sulphate and then KoH and last Sulphuric Acid. 

Hydrogen is a reducing agent, that is, it replaces the oxygen, 
as in making reduced iron. 

The Halogen Group, called Salt Producers. 

Chlorine, Cl, is a gaseous element. Fluorine, FI, is a gaseous 
element. Iodine, I, is a solid element. Bromine, Br., is a liquid 
element. 

The Halogens are all univalent. Their Oxides combine with 
water to form Acids. They are sometimes called non-metals. 
Their salts usually end in “ide.” 

Chlorine , Cl, valence 1, atomic weight 35.5. It forms salts 
called Chlorides. It is found in the vegetable to a great extent, 
but is found in the Animal Kingdom combined with Sodium. It 
is found in sea water and in the salt wells of the U. S. It is 
about 2 l / 2 times heavier than air and can be collected by displace¬ 
ment. It bleaches all vegetable matter in the presence of mois¬ 
ture by uniting with Hydrogen, which liberates the Oxygen and 
thereby ovidizing and bleaching the substance. It will not bleach 
mineral colors. It can be made by acting on Chlorate of Potash 
with Hydrochloric Acid. 

A test for Chlorine and Chlorides: Nitrate of Silver produces 
a white precipitate. 

A test for Chlorates: When heated they give off oxygen. 

Chlorine forms the following Oxides: C120 is Chlorine Monox¬ 
ide; C1204 is Chlorine Dioxide; it is produced when Sulpuhric 
Acid is added to Chlorate of Potash. C1207 is Chlorine Heptox- 
ide. Chlorine forms the following Acids: HC1 is Hydrochloric 
Acid; HC10 is Hypochlorous Acid, made by passing C120 into 
water; HC102 is Chlorous Acid; HC103 is Chloric Acid, and 
HC104 is Perchloric Acid. 

Chlorine Water contains .4% Chlorine Gas. Laborraque’s Solu - 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


87 


tion contains 2.5% Chlorine Gas. Chlorinated Lime contains 30%. 

Calx Chlorinata is Chlorinated Lime. Made by acting” on Cal¬ 
cium Hydroxide with Chlorine Gas. It is called Chloride of Lime, 
known as Bleaching Powder. It is usually seen on the market in 
14-lb. cans. 

Bromide, Br., atomic weight 80, valence 1. It makes salts called 
Bromides. It is a dark reddish brown, heavy liquid, poisonous to 
inhale and very irritating to throat, lungs and eyes. The source 
is from the brine wells of Pennsylvania. Bittern is the name 
of the mother liquor of the manufacturing of salt. A test for 
Bromine and Bromides: Nitrate of Silver produces a yellowish 
white precipitate. 

Iodine, I, atomic weight 126. It forms salts called Iodides. It 
is a heavy blueish black non-metallic element, obtained from a 
seaweed called Kelp, also prepared Chile saltpetre. It is insoluble 
in water but is made so by the addition of Iodide of Potash. 

When Iodine is dissolved in Alcohol it has a red color and when 
dissolved in Carbon Disulphide or Chloroform it has a violet color. 
A test for Iodine: Starch turns it blue. A test for Iodides: Add 
Chlorine Water, which liberates the Iodine, then add starch and 
it turns blue. 

The Antidote for Iodine: Starch followed by emetics. Chlorine 
and Bromine have a stronger affinity for Hydrogen than Iodine, 
therefore, both will liberate Iodine from HI. 

Fluorine, FI., atomic weight 18.9, valence 1. Its salts are sel¬ 
dom used in medicine. It unites with Hydrogen and forms Hydro¬ 
fluoric Acid, which is used in the arts for etching glass. It is very 
poisonous. It corrodes glass, porcelain, earthenware, and the 
metals, with the exception of gold, platinum and lead. It occurs 
in nature as Cryolite. 


LECTURE No. 36 

Oxygen, O, atomic weight 16, valence 2. It exists in the air 
and is 16 parts by weight of water, and that accounts for fish 
being able to live in water. It is heavier than air. It is a colorless, 


88 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


odorless, tasteless gas and is a powerful supporter of combustion, 
and a fat splinter of wood if ignited will burst into flame if placed 
in Oxygen. It is a non-poisonous gas and is being continually 
absorbed by living animals during the process of respiration. It 
is now in the U. S. P. and for convenience it is compressed in 
metal cylinders. It can be made by heating Chlorate of Potash, 
thusly: KCI03 plus heat equals KC1 plus 03. It unites with all 
the elements to form oxides except Fluorine. With C&O it forms 
the bases of nearly all the alkaloids. 

Test for Oxygen: It supports combustion. 

Oxygen unites with Hydrogen and forms water. Water can be 
separated into its component parts by electricity. Oxygen unites 
with Hydrogen and forms Hydrogen Dioxide, which can be made 
by acting on Barium Dioxide with any dilute acid, thusly, Ba02 
plus 2HC1 equals BaC12 plus H202. A test for Peroxide: It will 
liberate Iodine from Iodide of Potash in the presence of Ferrous 
Sulphate. 

Ozone Formula , 03, molecular weight 48. It is a modified form 
of Oxygen, that is, three volumes being condensed into two. It 
exists in the air, especially during a thunder storm. It can be 
made by passing an electric current through oxygen. It reverts 
very gradually into oxygen. 

A test to distinguish Morphine from Quinine: Nitric Acid pro¬ 
duces a red color with Morphine. 

Decay is slow oxidation. An impalpable powder is one reduced 
to such a degree of fineness that it cannot be felt when passed 
through the fingers. 

We have three Suppository Bases official: First is Oil of Theo- 
broma, second is Glycerinated Gelatin, and third is Stearate of 
Soda, which is the vehicle or base in making the official Glycerin 
Suppositories. 

Glycerin Suppositories are made by dissolving Carbonate of 
Soda in water, add Stearic Acid and Glycerin and heat until 
effervesence ceases, then pour into molds. The Stearic Acid con¬ 
verts the soda into Stearate of Soda which permits the absorption 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


89 


of 95% of Glycerin. These suppositories are very Hydroscopic 
and should be kept in sealed bottles. 

The Antidote for Ptomaines: Give emetics, Salol and Opium. 
The symptoms of this poisoning-: They begin about 24 hours after 
the food has been eaten with nervousness, chilliness, headache, 
and extreme thirst; pains in the abdomen and calf of the legs and 
muscles. Muscarine is the poisonous alkaloid in mushrooms, and 
Tyrotoxicon the one found in cheese, milk and ice cream. 

A test to find out if Calomel is contaminated with Corrosive 
Sublimate: Boil the Calomel in water and filter and to the Altera¬ 
tion add Hydrogen Sulphide and if a precipitate occurs it indi¬ 
cates Corrosive Sublimate. 

LECTURE No. 37 

Phosphorous, P., atomic weight 31, valence 3 and 5. It is a non- 
metallic element made by acting on Calcium Phosphate, which is 
the chief constituent of bone with Sulphuric Acid, Ca3(P04)2 
plus 2H2S04 equals 3CaS04 plus 2H3P04. The bones are first 
freed from fat and gelatin and then heated to whiteness, which 
makes tertiary Calcium Phosphate and this is then treated with 
Sulphuric Acid and the above equation is proven. 

When Phosphorous is exposed to air it emits white fumes and 
takes fire spontaneously and gives off an odor like that of garlic, 
and it should be kept under water. It resembles wax in appear¬ 
ance, being a translucent nearly colorless solid. It is insoluble 
in water but will leave its odor and taste. 

Phosphorous can be purified and powdered by melting under 
water and straining through chamois. 

The value of Phosphorous in medicine depends upon its being 
used in a free state, and all preparations of it must be protected 
from light and air to prevent oxidation. It is a great reducing 
agent. Sulphuric Acid is reduced to Hydrogen Sulphide by it. 

When we speak of Phosphorous we have reference to the yellow 
or ordinary P. 

Red Phosphoro'iis is made by heating the ordinary Phosphorous 


90 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


to 300 degrees and is not poisonous, not soluble, seen in powder 
form, has no fumes. Ignites at 260 degrees, and is seldom used 
in medicine. 

Yellow Phosphorous is very poisonous, being the main ingre¬ 
dient in rat and roach pastes. It is usually seen in stick form. 
It is soluble in 17 mils, of Chloroform and 400 mils, of Dehydrate 
Alcohol, and extensively used in medicine. The antidote is old 
Oil of Turpentine. It forms six acids and two oxides. The most 
important acid is Phosphoric Acid, H3P04, also known as Ortho- 
phosphoric Acid. It can be made by acting on Bone Ash with 
Sulphuric Acid. It has two derivatives: Pyrophosphoric Acid, 
made by heating Phosphoric Acid and depriving it of water. It 
does not coagulate albumen thus distinguishing it from Meta- 
phosphoric Acid, and it gives a white precipitate with Ammonia 
and Silver Nitrate test from Phosphoric Acid. 

Metaphosphoric Acid, HP03, is often called Glacial Phosphoric 
Acid. Not U. S. P. 

The oxides of Phosphorous are Trioxide, P203, and the Penta 
Oxide, P205. 

Nitrogen, N, atomic weight 14, valence 3. It is a colorless, 
odorless and tasteless gas. It is a non-supporter of combustion; 
a lighted splinter will be extinguished if placed in a jar of Nitro¬ 
gen. Hydrogen will ignite. Oxygen will not extinguish the flame 
but intensify it. Nitrogen can be made by heating Ammonium 
Nitrite (NH4N02 plus heat equals N2 plus 2H20). Nitrogen 
forms five oxides with oxygen, N20, N202, N203, N204 and 
N205. The main function of Nitrogen in the air is to reduce 
down the oxygen. 

Nitrogen Monoxide is official. It is known as Laughing Gas. 
It is made by heating Ammonium Nitrate. It is a colorless gas 
seen on the market in metal cylinders used in dental surgery, 
mostly as an anesthetic. Its name, Laughing Gas, is because the 
patient usually talks and laughs under its influence. The most 
important combination of Nitrogen is when it unites with Hydro¬ 
gen and forms Ammonia. Carbon and Nitrogen unite and form 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


91 


Cyanogen Symbol, CN. It forms salts called Cyanides and unites 
with Hydrogen and forms HCN. 

We have two important acids of Nitrogen: HN03 and HN2. 

The Atmosphere is a mechanical mixture and not a chemical 
compound. It is composed of 79 volumes of Nitrogen and 2,1 
volumes of Oxygen, other bodies, however, may be or can be 
present. 

The difference between a chemical compound and a mechanical 
mixture: A mixture possesses all the properties of its ingerdients 
and the ingredients can be mixed in different proportions, but a 
chemical compound possesses'entirely different properties of its 
ingredients and the proportion is fixed. 

A Berry is a pulpy fruit that contains naked seed. Ex., tomato. 

To make one ounce of a saturated solution of Iodide of Potash, 
use 480 grains Iodide of Potash to 5% drachms of water. The 
dose is 5 minims. 

Cacodylic Acid , not U. S. P. Made by distilling Arsenous Tri¬ 
oxide and Potassium Acetate and oxidizing with Mercuric Oxide. 
It is chemically Dimethylarsenous Acid. It produces one sail 
which is official. 

Sodii Cacodylas, Cacodylate Soda, 75% pure. It is made by- 
neutralizing the above acid with Sodium Hydroxide. It is used 
like other Arsenic preparations but less toxic on account of its 
slow absorption. It is a white powder but usually seen on the 
market in solution for Hypodermic injection. It is used like 606 
or other similar preparations. The dose is 1 to 3 grains; hypo 
dose, y 2 to 2 grains. 

Protargol is not official. It is a redish brown powder contain¬ 
ing 8% silver in combination with albumen. Used as eye wash 
and injection. 

Argyrol is an Organic Compound composed of 30% silver in 
combination with Vitellin. It is used in eyes, throat and injec¬ 
tion. Vitellin is made from serum albumen by electrolysis. 


92 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


LECTURE No. 38 

Sulphur , S., atomic weight 32, valence 2, 4 and 6. It is found 
in Italy in the volcanic regions, also found in California, Utah 
and Louisiana. It exists in a free state. It is a lemon yellow, 
hard, brittle substance, purified by sublimation. 

Brimstone is Crude Sulphur. It is Sulphur mined, melted and 
poured into molds. It is often called Rolled Sulphur. It is used 
for technical purposes only. 

Sublimed Sulphur is known as Flowers of Sulphur. It is Sul¬ 
phur purified by sublimation. It has a slight acid, taste and reac¬ 
tion. The dose is 60 grains. 

Sulphur Lotum is Washed Sulphur, made by macerating Sul¬ 
phur in water containing Ammonia Water for three days, then 
strain and wash the Sulphur with water. 

Sulphur usually contains small traces of Sulphuric or Sulphur¬ 
ous Acids and the Ammonia forms with it Ammonium Sulphate, 
which is washed out and thereby removes the Sulphuric Acid. 
Washed Sulphur is a lemon color powder with no odor or taste 
and enters into Compound Licorice Powder because when the 
Sulphuric Acid is washed out it destroys the griping principle. 

Precipitated Sulphur is known as Lac. Sulphur, also called Milk 
of Sulphur. Made by acting on Sulphur and Lime with Hydro¬ 
chloric Acid and water. It is a very light yellow powder. Dose, 
60 grains. 

Brimstone, Flowers of Sulphur and Precipitated Sulphur all 
are the same chemically and all have the same symbol “S.” 

Sulphur burns with a pale blue flame. It melts at 115 degrees. 
It unites directly with Oxygen, Chlorine, Phosphorous and Car¬ 
bon and most of the metals. It is soluble in Carbon Disulphide. 
Sulphur unites with Hydrogen and forms Hydrogen Sulphide, 
H2S, known as Sulphuretted Hydrogen and Hydrosulphuric Acid. 
It is a colorless gas with an offensive odor used as a re-agent. It 
unites with many metals and decomposes their oxides and car¬ 
bonates. It can be made by acting on Ferrous Sulphide with 
Sulphuric Acid. Sulphur forms with Oxygen four oxides. Sul¬ 
phur Heptoxide, S207, forms with water an acid known as Per- 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


93 


sulphuric Acid, but it is of little importance. Thiosulphuric Acid 
is often called Hyposulphurous Acid. 

Tellurium is a rare non-metallic element, symbol Te. It is a 
lustrous white, brittle substance after subliming, but is black 
before. It is treated very much like Sulphur. Sodium Tallurate 
is given in night sweats and in the treatment of ulcers of the 
stomach. Dose, V 2 gr. Not official. 

The Poison in Face Bleach is Corrosive Sublimate. The poison 
in Hair Dye is Nitrate of Silver. In Analine Dyes is Arsenic. 
In Embalming Fluid is Arsenic and Formaldehyde. 

LESSON No. 39 

Carbon Symbol, C., valence 2 and 4. It occurs in nature in the 
free state in three alltropic forms, Diamond, Coal and Graphite. 
It is a constituent in all organic compounds. 

Diamond is the rarest form of free carbon. It is the hardest 
substance known. The weight of Diamond was expressed as 
karats, but now expressed karat, meaning 200 millegrams. 

Graphite, known as Plumbago, or Black Lead, is found in a free 
state throughout the world. It is used in making lead pencils. 

Carbo Animinalis is Animal Charcoal. It is an amorphous form 
of carbon made by heating bone out of contact to air. It is 
known as Bone-Black, Ivory-Black, and it is used for depriving 
substances of their color. It is freed from Lime by treating with 
HC1 and washing. 

Carbo Ligni is Wood Charcoal. It is tasteless and insoluble. 
Dose, 15 grains. 

Carbon forms two Oxides: Carbon Monoxide and Carbon 
Dioxide. 

Carbon Monoxide , CO, is a poisonous, colorless gas, not used in 
medicine. It is the poison in illuminating. When inhaled it pro¬ 
duces dizziness, headache and convulsions and then death, by pre¬ 
venting the absorption of oxygen. The antidote is fresh air. 

Carbon Dioxide, called Carbonic Acid, C02, is a colorless, odor¬ 
less gas with a sharp taste and soluble in its own volume of water. 


94 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


It will not support combustion and for that reason it is used in 
fire extinguishers. When it is added to water we get Carbonic 
Acid Gas or Hydrogen Carbonate, which is an organic Acid that 
does not exist alone. 

Soda Water is a solution of C02 gas in water under pressure 
(H2C03). 

Carbonates are salts of Carbonic Acid. 

Carbon Disulphide, known as High Life, CS2, is made by the 
direct union of Carbon and Sulphur. It is a poisonous liquid used 
as a solvent for rubber and sulphur. 

Methane , CH4, known as Marsh Gas, occurs free in nature and 
belongs to the Hydrocarbons. It is a colorless, odorless, tasteless 
gas and burns with a feeble flame. It unites with Chlorine and 
forms Methyl Chloride, CH3C1, from which a series of compounds 
are formed. Example: When it is acted upon with Silver Oxide, 
Methyl Alcohol is produced. 

Methane can be made by heating a mixture of Acetate of Soda 
and Caustic Soda. 

CHC13 is Chloroform, 99% strength, remainder Alcohol which 
acts as a preservative. 

CHBr3 is Bromoform, used for whooping cough. 

Iodoform, called Triiodomethane, CHI3, is made by the action 
of Iodine on Alcohol and an Alkali. It is a lemon yellow powder 
with a penetrating odor and a sweet taste. It is used as an altera¬ 
tive in 4-grain doses. It is a valuable antiseptic because it con¬ 
tains 97% Iodine. 

LECTURE No. 40 

Fixed Oils and Fats are obtained from both the Animal and 
Vegetable Kingdoms. They are greasy to the touch and leave a 
greasy stain on paper. Chemically, Fixed Oils and Fats are 
Esters, that is, they contain an alcohol radical and an acid radical. 

Fixed Oils are insoluble in and lighter than water. With the 
exception of Castor Oil and Croton Oil, they are practically insol¬ 
uble in alcohol. They mix with Chloroform, Petroleum Benzin, 
and Carbon Disulphide. On exposure to warm air they decom- 


95 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 

pose and acquire a disagreeable odor and taste and are acid to 
litmus paper. They are then called rancid. 

Fixed Oils that become rancid can be purified by treating with 
hot solutions of Carbonate of Soda. 

Vegetable Fixed Oils are usually obtained by expression from 
fruit and seeds, therefore they are often called “Expressed Oils.” 
They are divided into two classes: Drying and Non-drying. Dry¬ 
ing Oils on exposure to air gradually thicken, example, Linseed 
Oil. The best Non-drying Oil is Olive Oil. 

The Chemical Constituents of Fixed Oils and Fats are Olein, 
Stearin and Palma. Olein is the oleate of the triad radical 
Glyceryl (C3H5); it is the liquid principle. Palmntin is the solid 
principle; it is the Glyceride of Palmitic Acid. Stearin consits of 
Glyceryl and Stearic Acid. 

Expressed Oil of Almond is a Fixed Oil known as Oil of Sweet 
Almond, but is obtained from either the Bitter or Sweet Almond. 
The yield is 40%. It enters into Emulsion of Turpentine and 
Ointment of Aqua Rosae. Used as a laxative in 1-oz. doses. 

Cotton Seed Oil is a Fixed Oil and enters into Camphorated 
Oil, Soft Soap and Compound Ointment of Tar. 

Olive Oil is a Fixed Oil and enters into Lead Plaster. 

Linseed Oil is a Fixed Oil and the main constituent is Linolin. 
It enters into Lime, Liniment and Comp. Solution of Cresol. 

Oleaum Sesami is a Fixed Oil expressed from the seed of culti¬ 
vated varieties of Sesamum Indicum of the family Pedaliaceae. 
It is used in Ammonia Liniment because it saponifies readily and 
is a less sticky mixture. 

Castor Oil is a Fixed Oil that is soluble in an equal volume of 
alcohol. 

Glycerin, C3H5(OH)3, is called and is official under the name 
Glycerol. It is called Glyceric Alcohol. It is a triatomic or tri- 
hydric alcohol 95% pure. It is obtained by the hydrolysis of 
vegetable or animal fats, also as a byproduct in the manufacture 
of soaps. It was first obtained in the manufacture of Lead 
Plaster. It is a colorless liquid with a neutral reaction and a 
sweet taste. Sp. G. 1. On account of the fact it absorbes mois- 


96 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


ture from the air it is used to keep substances moist. The dose of 
Glycerin is one teaspoonful. When it is acted upon with Nitric 
Acid we get Nitroglycerin. When it is heated it losses water. 

Sapo is Soap, White Castile Soap. It is made by acting on 
Sodium Hydroxide with Olive Oil. It is a laxative in 2-grain 
doses. It is a hard soap. 

Hard Soaps are made by acting on a Fixed Oil or Fat with 
Sodium Hydroxide. 

Sapo Mollis is Soft Soap, formerly called Sapo Viridis or Green 
Soap. It is made by acting on Potassium Hydroxide with Cotton¬ 
seed Oil. It should be a yellow white mass and used externally. 
If you wish a Green Soap, use Hemp Seed Oil. It enters into 
Liniment of Soft Soap. 

Chemically all Soaps are Oleates. Oleate of Soda is purified 
Castile Soap, made by dissolving one part of Castile Soap in 
eight parts of hot water and filter. The filterate contains the 
Oleate of Soda. 

Icthyolum is Icthyol, chemically it is Ammonium Sulphoicthyo- 
late. It is a tarry-looking substance and contains about 10% of 
Sulphur. It is prepared from a brownish mineral of animal 
residue of fossil fishes found in Switzerland. It is given internally 
in capsules or pills or dissolved in peppermint water, as high as 
90 grains daily. Mostly used externally. Sulpho-icthyolates of 
Soda, Lithium, and Zinc are on the market. Isarol and Icthynant 
are on the market. 


LECTURE No. 41 

Cinnamomum Cassia is Chinese Cinnamon, and the Volatile Oil 
obtained from it is official as Oleum Cassiae or Oil of Cinnamon. 
It is the official Oil of Cinnamon, yet there is an Oil of Cinnamon 
on the market obtained from Ceylon Cinnamon and is a finer 
variety. It contains 4 to 8% Eugenol and Cassia Oil does not. 

There are three varieties of Cinnamon, two official: Ceylon 
Cinnamon and Saigon, the official ones, the latter being a culti¬ 
vated variety. True Chinese Cinnamon is not cultivated and 
seldom reaches American ports. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


97 


Ceylon Cinnamon is a very light shade and thin. 

Saigon Cinnamon is heavy bark. 

The Camphor Tree belongs to the order Lauraceae, species 
Cinnamomum Camphora. The U. S. P. states that Camphor is a 
keytone obtained from the Cinnamomum Camphora and is dextro¬ 
rotatory, purified by sublimation. 

The chipped wood of the Camphor Tree is distilled with steam 
and is freed from Volatile Oil by draining and pressing and then 
subliming. 

Dextrotatory has reference to the Polar-iscope, an instrument 
used in chemical analysis. Dextrorotatory is turning the plain of 
polorization to the right, and Levorotatory is to the left. 

The Camphor Tree grows abundantly on the Island of Formosa, 
and island off the coast of China and owned by Japan. 

Camphor burns with a smoky flame. It is very soluble in alco¬ 
hol, almost insoluble in water. The dose is 3 grains used as a 
stimulant. The liniment is official. 

When Camphor is triturated with Menthol, Chloral, Thymol or 
Thyol, it liquifies. 

Monobromated Camphor is official. Made by heating Camphor 
and Bromine together and treating with benzin and purified by 
recrystallization. The dose is 2 grains as a nerve sedative. 

Camphoric Acid , N. F., made by the oxidation of Camphor, is 
given in Tuberculosis in 18-grain doses. 

Oil of Camphor , N. F., is obtained during the manufacture of 
Camphor. 

Camphor can be prepared artificially by Thurlow process by 
distilling a mixture of Oxalic Acid, Turpentine and Lime, but it 
is optical inactive. 

Camphor Menthol and Camphor Chloral are both in the N. F. 
Used externally for pain. 

White Mustard Seed does not yield the Volatile Oil of Mustard. 

Petrolatum , called Petroleum Jelly, also Pertolatum Ointment. 
It is a mixture of solid Hydrocarbons obtained from Petroleum. 
It is about the same as Vaseline. It enters into Ointment of Mer¬ 
cury Dilute and Ointment of Yellow Oxide of Mercury. It is an 


98 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


ointment like mass, varying in color from yellowish to light amber. 

Petrolatum Album is White Petrolatum or White Petroleum 
Jelly. It is the same as White Vaseline. It is Petrolatum de¬ 
colorized by passing through Animal Charcoal. 

Liquid Petrolatum , called Liquid Paraffin or Mineral Oil, also 
known as Russian Oil, sold for a number of years as Liquid Albo- 
line, is a mixture of Liquid Hydrocarbons obtained from Petro¬ 
leum. It is a colorless liquid, SP. G. 830 to 900. It is soluble in 
Ether, Chloroform and Petroleum Benzin. It is insoluble in 
alcohol or water. It readily dissolves Camphor, Menthol or Thy¬ 
mol and forms what are known as nasal sprays with them. It is 
given internally in ]/ 2 - oz. doses and is said to be an intestinal 
lubricant and in that way causes the bowels to move. 

Heavy Liquid Petrolatum should have a viscosity of 3.1, and 
the Light not less than 3. Viscosity of more or less adhesion of the 
molecules of a liquid have to each other so that they flow with 
difficulty. 


LECTURE No. 42 

It is the time required for a given amount of a substance to 
flow to a given space compared to that of water. 

The degree of thickness of all Petroleum products is due to the 
amount of paraffin they contain. 

Paraffinum is Paraffin. It is a mixture of Solid Hydrocarbons 
obtained from Petroleum. It is often called Paraffin Wax because 
it resembles wax in appearance. It is used in making ointments 
and enters into Ointment of Boric Acid. 

Beninum Purificatum is Purified Petroleum Benzin. It is often 
called Petroleum Ether. It is a purified distillate from American 
Petroleum and cosists chiefly of Hydrocarbons from the marsh 
gas series. It is highly inflammable and its vapor when mixed 
with air and ignited will explode. The crude product is Gasoline, 
often called Benzine. 

Petroleum not official . It is as its name indicates, Petra (Rock) 
Oleum (Oil), Rock Oil or Mineral Oil. It is a mixture of Liquid. 
Hydrocarbons found in the earth in various parts of the world. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


99 


Its source is uncertain, but it is believed to be obtained from 
fossilized animal residue. 

Marsh Gas is the first member of the Hydrocarbon series and 
occurs free in nature wherever vegetable matter is undergoing 
decomposition. 


LECTURE No. 43 

The Alkaline Metals are Potassium, Sodium, Lithium and Am¬ 
monium. They all have the valence 1. 

All combine with acids to form salts and all turn red litmus 
paper blue. All of their carbonates are soluble in water. 

The above are the main characteristics of the Alkaline Metals. 

Kalium, Symbol K, is Potassium, atomic weight 39, valence 1. 
The element Potassium, which is often spoken of as the Metal 
Potassium, was first obtained from Potassium Hydroxide by Elec¬ 
trolysis. A small amount can be obtained from sheep’s wool. The 
largest supply was obtained from the salt mines of Germany, 
where it was found as the impure Chloride. 

Potassium Hydroxide, KOH, known as Caustic Potash, also as 
Potassium Hydrate. It is a powerful alkali. It is seen on the 
market in sticks about the size of a pencil, white and deliquescent, 
and should be kept in well closed bottles. When it is dissolved in 
water it produces intense heat. It is made most extensively by 
acting on Calcium Hydroxide and Potassium Carbonate. K2C03 
plus Ca(OH)2 equals 2KOH plus CaC03. It is 85% pure. Used 
in Solution Potassium Hydroxide. 

Liquor Potassii Hydroxidi, Solution of Potassium Hydroxide. 
It is an aqueous solution containing not less than 4.5% Potassium 
Hydroxide. It is made by dissolving Potassium Hydroxide in dis¬ 
tilled water. The dose is 15 minims. The antidote is vinegar or 
weak acids. 

Potassii Acetas, Potassium Acetate, KC2H302. It is often 
called Sal Diuretic. It is a very deliquescent salt and should be 
kept in airtight containers. It is made by acting on Bicarbonate 
of Potash with Acetic Acid. KHC03 plus HC2H302 equals 


100 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


KC2H302 plus C02 plus H20. But the Carbonate of Potash is 
almost exclusively used because it is a cheaper product. 

Potassii Bicarbonas, Potassium Bicarbonate, KHC03. It is 
99% pure. It is often called Sal Aeratus. It yields large quan¬ 
tities of C02 gas. It is used in Solution of Citrate of Magnesia 
and Liq. Potassii Arsenitis. The dose is 15 to 30 grains. K2C3 
plus C02 plus H20 equals 2KHC03. 

Potassii Carbonas, Carbonate of Potash, called Salts of Tartar. 
It contains 15% moisture. Formula K2C03. Very deliquescent. 
Dose, 15 grains. Large doses irritant. 

Potassii Chloras, Potassium Chlorate, KCI03. It is a colorless 
crystal, almost insoluble in alcohol. One gramme will dissolve in 
ll l A mils, of water. It is soluble in glycerin. Care should be 
exercised in heating or placing under strong pressure with or¬ 
ganic substances, as sugar or Tannic Acid, Sulphur or other 
oxidizable substances, as it will explode. During the war a license 
or permit was required to buy or sell it in large quantities. Made 
by acting Calcium Chlorate with Potassium Chloride. Ca(CL03)2 
plus 2KC1 equals 2KC103 plus CaC12. 

Potassa Sulphurata , Sulphurated Potassa, called Liver of Sul- • 
phur. It is new in the U. S. P. It is made by mixing one part 
of Sulphur with two parts of Carbonate of Potash and heating 
together. It enters into Lotio Alba of the N. F. It is used in 
skin diseases, externally. 

Cyanide of Potash, KCN, is very poisonous. Dose, 1/5 grain. 

Liquor Potassii Citratis, Solution of Potassium Citrate, often 
called Neutral Mixture. Made by dissolving Bicarbonate of Pot¬ 
ash in water and dissolving Citric Acid in water and mixing the 
two solutions. It should always be made fresh. It is used as a 
refrigerant in tablespoonful doses. 

Potassii et Sodii Tartras, Potassium and Sodium Tartrate, 
known as Rochelle Salts, KNaC4H406. It is made by acting on 
Cream of Tartar with Carbonate of Soda. Dose, 150 grains. It 
enters into Seidlitz Powder. 

Potassii Bitartras, Potassium Bitartrate, known as Cream of 
Tartar. Its source is from Argols. The U. S. P. limits the amount 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


101 


of impurities (lead) to 20 parts to one million, which is the limit 
in all impurities of food products of the U. S. P. It is classed as 
a food product. It enters into Comp. Jalap Powder (Pulvis 
Purgans) and as a refrigerant and purgative in 30-grain doses. 
Also used in the manufacture of Tartaric Acid. 

Potassii Iodidum Kali Iodidi, is Iodide of Potash. It is white 
crystal, very soluble in water, slightly soluble in alcohol (1 to 22), 
It is used as an alterative in 5-grain doses. During the manu¬ 
facture of this salt there is devoloped a poisonous substance called 
Iodate of Potash and this is removed by treating with Charcoal. 
They always use a little Carbonate of Potash in the manufacture 
to whiten it. 

Potassii Nitras, Nitrate of Potash, called Saltpetre, also called 
Nitre, KN03. The dose is 8 grains. It is produced artificially in 
Nitre beds which are composed of wood ashes and animal and 
vegetable refuse. These are protected from rain and in time the 
ammonia in the organic matter oxidizes and forms Nitric Acid, 
which unites with the Potassium Hydroxide in the wood ashes 
and gradually forms Nitrate of Potash. It is used in making 
gunpowder and the same requirements as Chlorate of Potash 
applied to it during the war. (KOH plus HN03 equals KN03 
plus H20.) 

Potassii Permangamas, Potassium Permanganate, KMN04, 
known as Violet Potash. It is a powerful oxidizing agent and 
when brought in contact with organic matter gives off oxygen. It 
is a dark purple crystal soluble in water but decomposed by 
alcohol. It is used as an antidote in Opium poisoning in 4-grain 
doses, and in strong solutions injected into snake bites. The aver¬ 
age dose internally is one grain. 

Potassii Hypophosphis, Potassium Hypophosphite, is official for 
making Syrup Hypophosphites and as a preservative in Dilute 
Hydriodic Acid. It is an explosive and should not be triturated 
with nitrates. It can be given in 8-grain doses internally. 

Potassii Citras Effervescens is Effervescent. Potassium Citrate. 
It is made like all effervescent salts. Dose 30 to 60 grains. 

A test for Potassium Salts: a colorless flame is tinted violet. 


102 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


LECTURE No. 44 

Ammonium, NH4, molecular weight 18, valence 1. The metal 
has never been isolated and the nearest thing we have to it is the 
Amalgam, which is a metallic, spongy-like mass. When Ammo¬ 
nium Chloride in contact with Mercury is brought in contact with 
an electric current a butter-like mass is formed which is the 
Ammonium Amalgam. (Amalgam is a compound that one of its 
constituents must be Mercury.) 

A test for Ammonium Salts: When heated with a solution of 
Potassium Hydroxide the odor of ammonia is developed. 

NH3 is Ammonia Gas, and when we add it to water we get 
Ammonia Water, which is Ammonium Hydroxide, official as Aqua 
Ammoniae Fortior, or strong Ammonia Water. It is 28% strength 
and never given internally. 

NH40H is Solution of Ammonium Hyroxide or Ammonia 
Water. It is 10% strength and the dose is 15 minims. It is often 
called Spirit of Hartshorn. 

The Source of Ammonia Salts is from the gas liquor of coke 
ovens or the native carbonate found in guano deposits of S. A. 

When fumes of HC1 come in contact with Ammonia we have 
Ammonium Chloride. 

Ammonium Chloride, NH4C1, known as Muriate of Ammonia. 
Made by acting on Ammonia Gas with Hydrochloric Acid, then 
evaporate to dryness in iron pots. The impurity that is liable to 
be in Ammonium Chloride is the Ferrous Carbonate, which comes 
from the iron pots it is made in. 

Sal Ammoniac is commercial Muriate of Ammonia. 

Ammonium Carbonate is not a normal carbonate but a mixture 
of Acid Ammonium, Carbonate and Carbamate. In order to con¬ 
vert the Carbamate dissolve it in a little water and ammonia 
water. It is sometime called Baker’s Ammonia because it is used in 
making bread. It contains 31% of Ammonia Gas and should be 
kept in well closed containers and only the hard translucent pieces 
should be used. On exposure to air it loses its Co2 gas. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


103 


Smelling Salts is made by placing some Ammonium Carbonate 
in a bottle and adding Ammonia Water and perfume. 

When any Iodide assumes a dark color, it indicates that free 
Iodine is present and it should not be dispensed. Iodide of Am¬ 
monia can be deprived of its free Iodine by treating with a solu¬ 
tion of Ammonium Sulphide. This is the only Iodide that can be. 

Ammonium Iodide, NH4I, is a white power given in 5-grain 
doses. It is very deliquescent and gives up Iodine easily. It 
should not be dispensed if dark. 

Lithium Li, atomic weight 7. It is the lightest of all known 
metals. It is found in large quantities but distributed in all three 
kingdoms. It is a constituent of some mineral waters. We have 
the Bromide, Carbonate and Citrate official. The dose of each is 
8 grains as a diuretic. 

Natrium, Na, is Sodium, atomic weight 22.88. It is found as 
the Chloride. The element which is often called Metal Sodium 
can be made by the electrolysis of NaOH. 

Sodium Hydroxide, NaOH. called Caustic Soda, also Sodium 
Hydrate. It is very deliquescent, seen in white sticks. When it is 
added to water it produces great heat. 

Solution of Sodium Hydroxide is 4.5% strength. Made by add¬ 
ing NaOH to water. It enters into Magma Magnesia. 

We have four Salts of Sodium, that are poisonous: Sodium 
Aresnate, Dried Sodium Arsenate, Cacodyalate of Soda, and Cy¬ 
anide of Soda. All official. 

Sodii Benzosulphonidum is Sodium Saccharin, called Soluble 
Saccharin. Made by neutralizing Benzoic Acid Saccharin. It is 
not as sweet but more soluble. 

Sodii Glycerophosphas, Sodium Glycerinophosphate. It is a 
white powder having a saline taste. Made by neutralizing Glyce- 
rophosphoric Acid with Carbonate of Soda. 

Glycerophosphoric Acid is made by heating Glycerin and Phos¬ 
phoric Acid together. It is 20% strength. 

Sodium Perborate is a white salt that contains not less than 
9% of Available Oxygen. It is made from Boric Acid and Sodium 
Peroxide. It is used as an antiseptic dressing and bleaching 


104 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


agent. Its value depends on the amount of Available Oxygen. 

Sodii Phenolsulphonas is the same as Sulphocarbolated Soda. 
It is used as an antiferment in 4 to 20 grain doses, usually given 
in enteric capsules. 

Sodii Benzoas is a white powder given in 15-grain doses. 

Sodii Bicarbonas, NaHCo3 is known as cooking soda. It is 
soluble in water but insoluble in alcohol. It is made by passing 
C°2 Gas into Solution of Carbonate of Soda. When it has a little 
alkaline taste it is due to a small amount of carbonate present. 
This can be removed by washing. When it is heated it loses its 
water and gas and is converted into Carbonate of Soda. The dose 
is 15 grains, best in carbonated water. 

Sodii Salicylas, NaC7H503, is made by acting on Carbonate of 
Soda with Salicylic Acid. Is very soluble in water used in rheu¬ 
matic conditions. Dose, 15 grains. 

Sodii Carbonas Monohydratus, Na2C03 plus H20. It is known 
as Sal Soda or Washing Soda. It is the source of most of the 
salts of Soda. It is made by three different methods: LeBlanc, 
Solvae, and Cryolite. The latter, which is a mineral found in 
Greenland, is mostly used in this country. It is a white efflo¬ 
rescent crystal or white powder. The dried carbonate is the one 
given internally. 

Sodii Bromidum., NaBr. It is given in 15-grain doses. It con¬ 
tains more Bromine than Bromide of Potash. It is considered 
inferior to Potash but is more used. 

LECTURE No. 45 

Sodii Boras, Sodium Borate, Na2B407, Sodium Bimorate oi 
Tetraborate, called Borax or Tincal. It is found in Death Valley, 
also mined as Calcium Borate, which can be converted into Borax 
by treating with Sodium Carbonate. It is used in mouth washes 
and in the house as a cleanser and enters into Ointment Aqua 
Rosae as a bleaching agent. The dose is 10 grains. 

Sodii Hypophosphis, Sodium Hypophosphite, NaH2P02. Made 
from Calcium Hypophosphite and Sodium Carbonate. It is used 
in medicine in nervous and wasting diseases in 15 grain doses. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 105 

It is a reducing agent and should not be prescribed with Mercury 
or Silver Salts. 

Sodii Ivdigotindisulphonas , called Indigo Carmine and Ceru- 
leine. Made by adding a Sodium Salt to Indigo Sulphate. It is 
official for coloring Bichloride of Mercury Tablets, as it is claimed 
to be more lasting. It is also used for tests of Nitrates and 
Chlorine. 

Sodii Nitris, Sodium Nitrite, NaN02, is made by adding strips 
of sheet lead to Nitrate of Soda and heating for several hours, 
cooling, washing and crystalizing. Lead Oxide is formed at the 
same time. NaNo3 plus Pb equals NaN02 plus PbO. This salt 
is official for the sole purpose of preparing Sweet Spirits of Nitre. 

Sweet Spirits of Nitre is made by acting on Sodimu Nitrite 
with Alcohol Water and Sulphuric Acid and distill. The distillate 
is Ethyl Nitrite. Then add enough Alcohol to make the mixture 
weigh 22 times the weight of the Ethyl Nitrite. The dose is 1 dr. 
That you buy called Cone. Nitrous Ether is Ethyl Nitrite. 

Sweet Spirits of Nitre is a pale yellowish liquid and should 
have a neutral reaction. It should not effervesce when a crystal 
of Bicarbonate of Potash is dropped into it. It can be kept 
neutral by keeping a crystal of Bicarb. Potash in the bottom of 
the bottle. The acidity that is developed is due to the formation 
ot an Aldehyde that is converted into an acid. 

In filling prescriptions with preparations containing Tannin, 
such as FE Buchu should not be put in bottle until effervescence 
ceases, caused by Tannin decomposing Ethyl Nitrite and liber¬ 
ating Oxides of Nitrogen. Antipyrine froms with it a green 
precipitate called isonitrosoantipyrine, supposed poison. 

Sodii Chloridum is Chloride of Soda or table salt. It is mined 
as rock salt or obtained from brine wells. It is used in hemor¬ 
rhages. Dose, 4 dr. NaCl. 

NaC103 is Chlorate of Soda. It is soluble in one part of water 
and has that advantage over Chlorate of Potash. 

Sodii Sulphas, known as Glauber’s Salt, called Horse Salt, is 
used as a purgative for animals. It is obtained as a byproduct in 
the manufacture of HC1. 


106 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Sodii Iodidi is used like Iodide of Potash. Dose is 8 grains. 

Sodii Phosphas, Na2HP04. It is an acid salt with an alkaline 
reaction. It is chemically Disodiumorthophosphate. It is very 
soluble in water. Dose, 1 dr. It is often contaminated with 
arsenic. Dried Phosphate of Soda is official for preparing' Eff. 
Phosphate of Soda. 

Sodium Thiosulphate, formerly called Hyposulphite of Soda, 
called by the photographers Hypo., is used for Poison Ivy. 

Sodii Arsenas is Arsenate of Soda and is preferred to Arsenous 
Acid as it is more uniform in quality. Made from Arsenous Tri¬ 
oxide, Nitrate of Soda and Carbonate of Soda. The dried Arsenate 
of Soda enters into Liquor Sodii Arseantis. The dose is 1/20 gr. 

LECTURE No. 46 

The Alkaline Earths are Magnesium, Calcium, Barium and 
Strontium. 

Magnesium is found as Magnesite, a carbonate; Dolomite, a 
double Magnesium, and Calcium Carbonate; Kieserite, a Sulphate 
and in the form of Silicates such as Meerschaum, Talc and As¬ 
bestos. The symbol is Mg., the valence is 2. 

The Element Magnesium is a silver white metal and can be ob¬ 
tained by heating Magnesium Chloride with the Metal Potassium 
in a platinum crucible and washing out the Potassium Chloride 
that is formed. On account of its chemical activity it is used in 
flashlight powder. It burns readily with a white very bright light. 
It contains large quantities of Hydrogen Gas and Carbon Mo- 
noxid. We have two oxides of Magnesia official: the light and 
heavy. 

Magnesii Oxidum, Magnesium Oxide, called Magnesia, Calcined 
Magnesia, and Light Magnesia. Made by heating Magnesium 
Carbonate to a red heat. This is made from the Light Magnesium 
Carbonate. It is used as a laxative and antacid in 30 gr. It is 
a light white powder often called Magnesium Ustum. MgC03 
plus heat equals MgO plus C02. 

Magnesii Oxidum Ponderosum is heavy Oxide of Magnesia. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


107 


Made by heating the heavy Magnesium Carbonate to dryness. It 
is used like the Light and there is no chemical difference between 
the two, but when one part of Light Magnesia Oxide is mixed 
with 15 parts of water and let stand for half an hour a gelatinous 
mass is forced; the Heavy will not. 

The official Magnesium Carbonate is not a normal salt but a 
mixture of MgCo3 and Magnesium Hydroxide. Commercially it 
is prepared from Dolomite and also by treating the Sulphate with 
Sodium Carbonate and water. Cold water makes the Light Car¬ 
bonate and hot water the Heavy. Carbonate of Magnesia is seen 
on the market in ounce or two ounce blocks. It is very light and 
white and the dose is 30 to 60 grains. It was once used in the 
manufacture of medicated waters but was found to be slightly 
soluble and would impart a slight acid reaction to them. It is an 
antacid and in the presence of acids it is cathartic. 

Magnesium Sulphate , MgS04 plus 7H20. It is prepared in 
this country from Magnesite by acting on it with Sulphuric Acid. 
MgC03 plus H2S04 equals MgS04 plus H20 plus C2. It is solu¬ 
ble in one to one of water and almost insoluble in alcohol. It is 
given as a cathartic in V 2 - 0 Z. doses and if given in ice water the 
nauseous bitter taste is not so noticeable. It is a white, odorless 
needle-like crystal. If a few grains of Epsom Salts is injected 
into the veins it acts as a deadly poison. 

A Test to distinguish Epsom Salts from Zinc Sulphate: Zinc 
Sulphate will precipitate in a solution of Ferrocyanide of Potash, 
Epsom Salts will not. 

Magma Magnesia , known as Milk of Magnesia and Lac Magne¬ 
sia. Made by mixing Magnesium Carbonate in distilled water, 
dissolving Sodium Hydroxide in distilled water, mixing the two 
solutions with constant stirring for l / A hour. Then wash the re¬ 
sulting Magma well by decantion until the red color produced in 
50 mils, of the washing by 3 minims of Phenolphthaelin T. S. is 
discharged by one drop of Dilute Sulphuric Acid. It should con¬ 
tain 7J4% Magnesium Hydroxide. It is used as an antacid and 
laxative. The dose is 2 to 3 drachms. The U. S. P. permits its use 
in the official Arsenic Antidote. 


108 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Carbonization is a process of heating organic substances with¬ 
out access to air until all volatile principles are driven off. Char¬ 
coal is made in this way. 

When a salt is added to water and heat is produced, it is due to 
a chemical change. 

Andydrous Salts are those free from water; when they are 
added to water, heat is produced by it taking up two or three 
molecules of water. Ex., Iodide of Soda. 

When salt is added to water and cold is produced, it is due to 
a physical change. Ex., Iodide of Potash. 

Calcination is the process of separating volatile substances from 
inorganic matter by the aid of heat. Ex., Calcined Magnesia is 
made this way. 

LECTURE No. 47 

Santonin should be kept in amber-colored bottles away from 
light. 

Solution Potassium Hydroxide should be kept in bottles with 
rubber stoppers or glass stoppers covered with paraffin. 

Lime Water should be kept with undissolved lime in the bottom 
of the bottle. 

Peroxide Hydrogen should be kept in bottles with paraffin cov¬ 
ered stoppers or remove the cork and place a piece of cotton 
over it. 

Chloride of Zinc should be kept in glass-stoppered bottles cov¬ 
ered with paraffin as it is very hygroscopic. 

Powdered Squills should be kept in sealed bottles. 

An Alloy is a mixture of two or more metals usually produced 
artificially by fusion, although some are found native. 

Gold Coin is an alloy of 900 parts gold, 75 parts copper and 
25 parts silver. 

Brass is an alloy of copper, zinc and a little tin. 

Amalgams are alloys which must contain mercury as one of the 
constituents, and some Amalgams are liquid. 

Cobolt, Co., atomic weight 59. It is a grayish metallic element 
usually found associated with Arsenic as Smaltite Cobalt Arsen- 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 109 

ide. It is often called Fly Stone. Coboltus Chloride is used for 
making the test solution. 

Cuprum is Copper, Cu., atomic weight 63.57. It is found in the 
metallic state and mined in the United States. It forms two 
ovides: Cuprous Oxide and Cupric Oxide, but it has but one salt 
official: Cupri Sulphas, Copper Sulphate or Cupric Sulphate. It 
is made by acting on Copper with Sulphuric Acid. It is a mineral 
astringent in ^4-gr. doses and a mineral emetic in 4-gr. doses. It 
is commonly known as Blue Stone or Blue Vitriol. Oleate of 
Copper is used for ringworms. 

A solution of Copper Sulpate 1 in 20 has a blue color and is 
acid to litmus. 

Plumbum is Lead, Pb., atomic weight 207, valence 2. It is found 
as the Sulphide called Galena. It is often found associated with 
Silver. The metal is a lustrous blueish gray element soft enough 
to cut with a knife. If exposed to moist air it oxidizes and in this 
way people have been poisoned by it in drinking water. 

Soft Water is a solvent for lead, hard water is not. 

Lead forms five oxides and only one is official, Plumbi Oxidum, 
PbO. It is a very heavy yellow powder used in making Lead 
Plaster. It is almost insoluble in water and alcohol. Soluble in 
Acetic Acid, Dilute Nitric Acid and KOH Sol. It is known as 
Litharge. Massicot is the impure form. 

Red Lead is a higher oxide of lead. It is in the N. F. 

Lead Iodide is not U. S. P.; was given in }4-gr. doses. 

Lead Carbonate is not U. S. P. Known as Flake White and 
White Lead. 

Plumbi Acetas, Pb (C2H302)2, known as Sugar of Lead. It is 
a colorless crystal and efflorescent absorbing Co2 on exposure to 
air. It is a mineral astringent given in 1-gr. doses. When it is 
dissolved in water it becomes cloudy, due to the formation of a 
trace of Carbonite. This can be cleared by the addition of a few 
drops of Acetic Acid. 

Stribium, Sb, valence 3 and 5, atomic weight 120. It is Anti¬ 
mony. It is a brittle white metal found as the Sulphide which is 
known as Gray Antimony Ore or Black Antimony Powder. Sul- 


110 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


phurated Antimony is known as Kermes Mineral on account of 
its orange red color. It enters into Plommer’s Pills, N. F. 

The Trichloride of Antimony is known as Butter of Antimony, 
which is used as a bronzing solution. 

Antimony and Potassium Tartrate is the only official salt of 
Antimony, K (SbO) C4H406. Made by acting on Cream of Tartar 
with Oxide of Antimony. It is an expectorant in 1/12 gr. doses, 
and emetic in 1-gr. doses. It is soluble in water and insoluble in 
alcohol. It is known as Tartar Emetic and enters into Comp. 
Syrup of Squills and Brown’s Mixture. Wine of Antimony was 
dropped by the last U. S. P. The test for Antimony and Arsenic 
is Marshes test. 

Marshes Test: If a solution containing either Arsenic or Anti¬ 
mony be placed in a flask containing Zinc and Sulphuric Acid is 
added and the Hydrogen Gas, which is evolved on ignition, will 
deposit a ring of metallic lustre on a porcelain plate, it shows the 
presence of either Aresnic or Antimony. If the spot on the plate 
is Antimony it will dissolve in a solution of Ammonium Sulphide. 
If it is Aresnic it will not. 

Incompatibility is the term used to express the effects produced 
in Pharmaceutical mixtures, by chemical decomposition, physical 
dissaciation, and therapeutical opposition. 


Zinc Sulph gr. x 

Plumbi Acet. gr. xv 

Aqua qs. oz. iv 

Msig: As directed 


This is a chemical incompatibili¬ 
ty, a new compound being formed. 
Sulphate of Lead, which falls to 
the bottom and Acetate of Zinc, 
which remains in solution. Dis¬ 
pense with a shake label. 


Quinine Sulph. gr. 1 

Acid Sulph. Arom. dr. ii 

F. E. Licorice dr. iv 

Aqua oz. i 

Syrupus qs. add oz. iv 

Msig: dr. i, q. 4 hrs. 


This is a physical incompatibili¬ 
ty, as the acid acts on the Ammo¬ 
nia in the Licorice and destroys 
the sweet principle, making the 
solution very bitter, whereas the 
Dr. intended a sweet mixture. 
Dispense with a shake label. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


111 


Morphine Sulph. gr. ii 
Atropine Sulph. gr.*4 
Aqua qs. add oz. ii 
Msig: 2 drops pr. H. 


This is an intentional therapeu¬ 
tic incompatibility as these drugs 
act directly opposite to each 
other, but that is the Physician’s 
desire. 


The Harrison Narcotic Law. It affects Opium and its prepara¬ 
tions, which contain more than a specified amount of Opium or 
its derivatives. 

Coca Leaves, their preparations and derivatives. The prop, 
or firm must register with Internal Revenue Collector, and the 
firm is given a serial number and special blanks for ordering all 
narcotics on. These blanks must be in duplicate and kept in file 
for two years and open to inspection by the Government. No pre¬ 
scription can be dispensed unless orignal, and it must contain the 
name and address of the patient and the full name and address 
of the M. D. with his serial number. This prescription cannot be 
refilled and must be kept for two years open to inspection of the 
Government. Preparations containing not more than the follow¬ 
ing are exempt: Opium, 2 gr. to the ounce; Codeine, 1 gr. to the 
ounce; Morphine, *4 gr. to the ounce; Heroin % gr. to the ounce. 
This has reference to solids as well as liquids. Cocaine cannot be 
dispensed in any amount or in any way except on prescriptions. 
Dover’s Powder, Smith’s Glyco Heroin, and Sun Cholera Mixture 
cannot be dispensed except on prescriptions. 


LECTURE No. 48 

Silicon, Si, valence 4, atomic weight. Next to oxygen it is the 
most abundant element. It is not found in a free state but in 
combination with oxygen as the dioxide known as Pumice Stone. 
Purified Silicious Earth is official. 

Argentum, A g, atomic weight 107, valence 1. It is found in 
the metallic state usually in combination with lead as the sulphide. 

The Antidote for Silver Salts is Sodium Chloride. 

Argenti Oxidum, Ag20, Silver Oxide. It is a heavy black pow¬ 
der given in 1-grain doses. Care should be exercised in handling 


112 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


it as it parts with its oxygen very rapidly and to avoid explosion 
should not be brought in contact with oxidizable substances. It 
must never be brought in contact with Ammonia. It is used as 
a substitute for Silver Nitrate for internal administration, as it 
is less caustic. 

Argenti Nitras, AgN03, Silver Nitrate. Dose is 1/6 grain. 
Externally escharotic. Internally it is used in gastritis and diar¬ 
rhoea. It is a colorless crystal becoming grayish black on ex¬ 
posure to light and air. 

All Silver Salts should be kept in amber-colored bottles pro¬ 
tected from light and air. 

Argenti Nitras Fusus is molded Nitrate of Silver, or Fused 
Nitrate of Silver, known as Luna Costic. Made by adding Hydro¬ 
chloric Acid to melted Nitrate of Silver and pouring into molds. 
The HC1 is added to toughen it so it will not break. 

Mitigated Nitrate of Silver , N. O. It is a diluted Nitrate of 
Silver made by melting Nitrate of Silver and Nitrate of Potash 
together. It is used externally. 

Aresnic, As, valence 3 and 5. It is a metallic element found as 
the sulphide. It is a steel-gray color and forms two oxides: 
Arsenic Trioxide and Pentaoxide. It forms three compounds with 
Sulphur: First is the Disulphide, which is known as Realgar; 
second is Orpiment or the Trisulphide, and the third is Penta- 
sulphide. 

Arsenic Trioxide , As203, called Arsenous Acid, Arsenous An¬ 
hydride and White Arsenic. Dose is 1/30 grain. Used as an 
alterative. Its antidote is the only official antidote. It is made 
by roasting Arsenic Ores in furnaces. It can be converted into 
Arsenous Acid by adding to water. 

Anhydride means acid without water. We have two trioxides 
called acids: Arsenic Trioxide and Chromium Trioxide. Any Tri¬ 
oxide may be converted into an acid by adding to water. 

Arsenii lodidum is Aresnous Iodide, AsI3, called Iodide of Ar¬ 
senic. It is 99% pure. It can be made in three ways: First, by 
heating one part of Aresnic Trioxide with 5 parts of Iodine; 
second, by dissolving them together in Chloroform and exaporat- 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


113 


ing the Chloroform by heat; third, by pouring a solution of Arsen¬ 
ous Trioxide into HC1 and pouring that into a solution of Potas¬ 
sium Iodide and collecting the precipitate. The dose is 1/12 grain, 
and enters into Donovan’s Solution. 

Turpentine Emulsion: Rectified Oil of Turpentine, oz. i; Exp. 
Oil of Almond, m. 192; Acacia, dr. viii; Aqua qs., oz. viii. Place 
your Acacia in a clean, dry bottle of suitable capacity and add the 
Turpentine and expressed Oil of Almond, shaking thoroughly, 
then add 2^4 ounces of water and shake vigorously. When the oil 
has been completely emulsified add syrup in several proportions, 
shaking after each addition, then add water qs. in small propor¬ 
tions, shaking after each addition. 

LECTURE No. 49 

Bismuth , symbol Bi. It is trivalent. It is a brilliant metal with 
a silver color and a reddish tint. It is often contaminated with 
Arsenic which can be removed with Hydrogen Sulphide. It is 
soluble in Nitric Acid and when it is dissolved in Nitric Acid and 
evaporated to dryness Bismuth Nitrate is formed and from this 
the most of the Bismuth Salts are formed. They are called Sub. 
Salts. 

Bismuth Subnitrate, Formula Bi0n03. It is a pearl white 
powder, odorless and tasteless. It has a slight acid reaction. 
People have been known to be poisoned from Bismuth due to the 
contamination of Arsenic. 

If you should have a prescription to fill containing Bismuth and 
Bicarbonate of Soda, you should use Glycerite of Starch if they 
are to be massed and put in capsules, as it contains no water. 

Bismuth Subcarbonate is a basic subcarbonate of Bismuth used 
as an astringent and tonic and is preferred for pills or capsules, 
as it is not so acid. It is a white powder given in 8-grain doses. 

Bismuth Subgallate, known as Dermatol. It is used internally 
as a sedative and astringent, but more frequently used externally 
as a skin remedy. It is used as a substitute for Iodoform and 
preferred on account of no odor. The dose is 8 grains. 


114 ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 

All Bismuth Salts are insoluble in water, except Bismuth and 
Ammonium Citrate, which is seen in scale form. It is made by 
heating* a solution of Bismuth Citrate with Ammonia Water. The 
dose is 3 grains. If solutions of Bismuth Citrate are cloudy they 
can be cleared up with a little Ammonia Water. 

Magma Bismuth, called Milk of Bismuth, also Cream of Bis¬ 
muth, is made by dissolving Bismuth Subnitrate in Nitric Acid 
and water, dissolve Ammonium Carbonate in water and Ammonia 
Water, mix the two solutions, wash the precipitate and add dis¬ 
tilled water. The dose is one drachm used as a substitute for 
Bismuth S. N. 

Bismuth Subsalicylate is a white powder used as an intestinal 
antiseptic. Dose, 5 to 15 grains. 

Calcium, Ca, valence 2, is found in nature as chalk and marble. 

Calx is Calcium Oxide, called Quicklime, made by calcining 
Limestone, which is Calcium Carbonate. It is usually the base 
for depillatory powders. 

Depillatory Powders are those used to remove superfluous hair. 

Liquor Calcis is Solution of Calcium Hydroxide. It has an alka¬ 
line taste and absorbs C02 Gas from the air. It is used in check¬ 
ing nauseau and used in infants’ food. 

Lotio Nigra is Black Wash, called Aqua Phagedoenica Nigra. 
It is made by adding 55 grains of Calomel to y 2 oz. water, then 
add lime water qs. to a pint. 

Lotio F lava is Yellow Wash, called Aqua Phagedoenica Flava. 
It is made by adding 22^ grains Corrosive Sublimate to y 2 oz. hot 
water, then adding lime water qs. to one pint. The yellow pre¬ 
cipitate is Yellow Oxide of Mercury. The black precipitate in 
Black Wash is Black Oxide of Mercury. 

When Calomel is added to lime water it turns black, when Cor¬ 
rosive Sublimate is added to lime water it turns yellow, and this 
is the test you should give if called on to distinguish between the 
two. 

Precipitated Calcium Carbonate is Precipitated Chalk, CaC03. 
It is an odorless, tasteless, white powder used largely in the 
manufacture of face powders and tooth powders. It is chemically 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


115 


identical with prepared chalk but does not possess the adhesive 
qualities, therefore inferior in making chalk powders. 

Cretae Preparatae is Prepared Chalk. It is Calcium Carbonate 
purified by elutriation. It is known as Drop Chalk or Crab’s Eye. 
It enters into Mercury with Chalk, Chalk Mixture in the form of 
Chalk Powder. It is used in these powders on account of its ad¬ 
hesiveness. 

Exsiccated Calcium Sulphate, known as Gypsum, is Plaster of 
Paris, N. O. 

Whiting is commercial Prepared Chalk, N. O. 

Calx Chlorinatae is Chlorinated Lime. 

Calcium Bromide is a white granular salt, odorless and taste¬ 
less, with a saline taste. It is used as a hypnotic and sedative in 
15-grain doses. 

Calcium Chloride is sometimes given internally as a haemo¬ 
static in 5-grain doses. 

Calcium Glycerophosphate is official. Dose, 5 to 10 grains. 

Calcium Hypophosphite is official. Dose, 5 grains. 

Calcium Lactate is official. Used to control hemorrhages, also 
in chronic ulcers of the stomach. Dose, 5 to 10 grains. 

Crude Calcium Sulphide was called Calx Sulphuretta. It is 
made from Calcium Sulphate, Charcoal and Starch. It is used 
externally as a depillatory and in j4-grain doses internally for 
acne. 

A Test for Cottonseed Oil and Olive Oil: If Olive Oil is shaken 
in an equal amount of Nitric Acid and allowed to stand for six 
hours it should be a light yellow color. If a dark brown color, it 
indicates Cottonseed Oil or other impurities. 

Velminck’s Solution is a solution of Sulphurated Lime, N. F. 
Used externally in skin troubles. 

Coconut Oil is Oleum Cocois. It is a Fixed Oil from Cocus 
Nuciferra. 

Acetylsalicylic Acid is Aspirin, given in 5-grain doses. It is 
incompatible in solution with alkalies. When given with Quinine 
internally in solution it has been known to produce the Quino- 
toxin. 


116 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Acidum PhonyIcinchoninicum is Phonylcinchonic Acid, known 
as Atophan. It is an organic acid made from Benzaldehyde and 
Anniline. It is seen in colorless needles or white or yellowish 
white powder with a slight odor of Benzoic Acid. It is insoluble 
in cold alcohol or water, soluble in hot alcohol. Dose, 8 grains. 

Aluminum , symbol Al, valence 3. It is a metal found in com¬ 
bination Silicic Acid in rock and clay. Some of the fine stones, 
such as Sapphires and Rubies, are an aluminum oxide. 

Alumini Hydroxidum , Aluminum Hydroxide, Al(OH)3. It is 
U. S. P. as a dusting powder. Made by dissolving separately 
Alum and Monohydrated Carbonate of Soda in water, heat the 
solutions and mix while hot and collect the precipitate. It is used 
like Zinc Oxide. 

Alumen is Alum. It is made from Alum Plate, which is Alumi¬ 
num Silicate, which contains Iron Pyrites, which on calcination 
forms Sulphuric Acid, which combines with the Aluminum and 
forms Aluminum Sulphate and then Potassium Sulphate or Am¬ 
monium Sulphate is added and forms Aluminum and Ammonium 
Sulphate or Aluminum and Potassium Sulphate, which is Alum. 
Either one is recognized by the U. S. P., but the one generally 
sold is the Ammonia Alum. It is a double salt. Used as an 
astringent in 8-grain doses. The Ammonia Alum is less soluble 
than the Potash Alum. Potassium Alum is soluble in 7.2 mils, 
of water. 

Alumen Exsiccatum is Exsiccated Alum, called Alumen Ustum, 
Dried Alum and Burnt Alum. It is made by heating Alum to 
dryness. One hundred gms. of Alum yileds about 55 gms. The 
label should show which Alum it is made from. It is used as an 
escharotic and is more powerful than Alum and less soluble. 

Manganese , symbol Mn., valence 2-4-6. It is found as the black 
oxide. It is a gray, lustrous metal, very hard and brittle. It 
forms five compounds with oxygen but only one is official, that is 
below. 

Mangani Dioxidum Praecipitatum, Precipitated Manganese 
Dioxide, Mn02. It is known as Black Oxide of Manganese. It 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


117 


is a heavy, very fine black powder without odor or taste. Dose, 
4 grains. Used as a haemetic. It is insoluble. 

Manganese Sulphate, not U. S. P., known as Pink Vitriol. Used 
as a Chologogue Cathartic. Dose, 5 grains. MnSo4. 

Potassium Permanganate, KMn04, is considered as a salt of 
Manganese. It is known as Condy’s Crystals or Red Manganate 
of Potash. 

Chromium, symbol Cr., valence 2 and 6. It is found in nature 
as Chromite, Fe0Cr203, which is Chrome iron ore in Pa. It forms 
five oxides and one is U. S. P. (below). 

Chromii Trioxidum, Chromium Trioxide, know as Chromic Acid. 
Chromic Anhydride, Cr03. It is made by decomposing Potassium 
Dichromate with Sulphuric Acid. It is very poisonous, never used 
internally, used mostly as a caustic to remove warts. It should 
never be brought in contact with organic substances as it is ex¬ 
plosive. 

Aurum-Gold, symbol Au, valence 1 and 3. It is found in the 
free state but in small quantities. There is one U. S. P. salt 
(below). 

Auri et Sodii Chloridum, Gold and Sodium Chloride. It con¬ 
tains not less than 30% of metallic gold. It is an orange yellow 
powder, odorless with a saline taste. Dose, 1/12 grain, as an 
alterative. 


LECTURE No. 50 

Some Solubilities in Water: Boric Acid, 18 parts; Alum, 8 
parts; Ammonium Chloride, very soluble; Blue Stone, very solu¬ 
ble; Epsom Salts, 1 part; Camphor and Menthol, slightly soluble; 
Salol, insoluble; Lead Acetate, soluble in 2 parts; Tannic Acid, 
very soluble. 

Herbs are plants whose stems do not become woody and die to 
the ground after flowering. Ex., Peppermint. 

Decolorized Tincture of Iodine is not a tincture, it is a solution 
of Sodium and Ammonium Iodide, made by digesting Iodine with 
Thiosulphate of Soda with Alcohol and Ammonia Water. 


118 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Ethereal Oil is a mixture of Esters and contains Ether, Alcohol, 
Sulphuric Acid and water. Enters into Hoffman's Anodyne. 

The Iodine number or value of fats indicates the number of 
grains of Iodine -a fat or oil will absorb under specified conditions. 

The difference between Saponification and Emulsification: In 
the first the oil is converted into a soluble soap, and in the latter 
the oil is suspended in water by the aid of a gum or mucilage. 

Passiflora Incarnatta is May Pop, also known as Passion 
Flower. Not U. S. P. 

A Test for Silver Salts: Hydrochloric Acid produces a white 
precipitate. 

A Test for Magnesium Salts: Alkalies produce a white precipi¬ 
tate. 

Extracts are solid or semi-solid products prepared by exhaust¬ 
ing the drug with a solvent and evaporating to the proper con¬ 
sistency. When the Extracts are made by exhausting the drug 
with water, they are called Aqueous Extracts. Example: Gen¬ 
tian, Opium and Malt. 

Powdered Extracts are made by evaporating down the liquid 
and rubbing up with dried starch or Magnesium Oxide to keep in 
powder form. They are preferred to Solid Extracts because they 
can be handled more easily. 

Solid Extracts are kept in a pilular consistency with a little 
glucose. 

In making Extract of Aconite, Tartaric Acid is used to develop 
up the Alkaloid. It should contain 2% of the Ether Soluble Alka¬ 
loids. Dose, 1/6 grain. 

Compound Extract Colocynth contains Ext. Colocynth, Aloes, 
Cardamon Seed, and Resin Scammony and Dried Soap. Enters 
into C. C. Pills. Dose, 4 grains. 

Extract Nux Vomica was 5% Alkaloids and it is now 16%. 
Dose, 14 grain. 

Extract of Opium should contain 20% Morphine, made by per¬ 
colating the Opium with water, evaporating down and rubbing up 
with starch. Dose, l / 2 grain. 

Extract Glycyrrhizae Purum is Pure Extract of Licorice. It 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


119 


contains Ammonia Water to develop up the sweet principle. En¬ 
ters into Brown’s Mixture. 

Extract of Glycyrrhiza is the commercial Extract of Licorice, 
seen in rolls. It enters into Troches of Ammonium Chloride and 
Troches of Cubeb. 

Some important dinigs added to the U. S. P.: Scammony Root, 
Asphidosperma, Petroselina, Heroin, Cotarnine, Nitrogen Monox¬ 
ide, Phenolphthaelin, Emetine Hydrochloride, and the two 
Magmas. 

Some drugs that ivere dropped: Phytolacca Decandra (Poke 
Root) Berberis, Calamus, Cocoa and Witch Hazel. 

The following drugs are subject to insect attacks: Cantharides, 
Ginger, Rhubarb, Ergot and Flaxseed. These insects are mites 
and can be destroyed or prevented by the addition of a few drops 
of Chloroform or Carbon Tetra-Chloride, from time to time. 

LECTURE No. 51 

Ferrum, Iron, symol Fe, valence 2 and 6. It is found as the 
oxide. It forms two classes of compounds—ous and ic. The 
U. S. P. states that Ferrum is metallic iron. Fe. atomic weight 55, 
in the form or fine, bright wire. 

Ous is the low form of Iron, valence 2; 7c is the high form of 
Iron, valence 6. 

To convert a ferrous salt into an ic salt, use Nitric Acid, and 
to convert an ic into ous use Hydrogen Sulphide. 

A Test for Iron Salts: Potassium Ferrocyanide produces a 
deep blue color with the ous salts and a green color with ic salts. 

Ferrum Reductum, called Reduced Iron, Iron by Hydrogen, and 
Quenvenne’s Iron. It is Iron reduced to the metallic state by the 
action of Hydrogen on Ferric Oxide. Symbol, Fe, atomic weight 
55, and is 90% pure. It is an insoluble, very fine, grayish-black 
powder, permanent in the air. The dose is one grain. 

Sugar is added to a number of iron preparations to prevent the 
ous iron from being converted into ic iron. 

Massa Ferri Carbonatis is Mass of Ferrous Carbonate, known 
as Vallet’s Mass. Should contain not less than 35% Ferrous Car- 


120 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


bonate (FeC03). Made by pouring* a solution of Ferrous Sul¬ 
phate into a solution of Monohydrated Carbonate of Soda, add 
syrup, collect the precipitate and mix with honey and sugar and 
evaporate down to a pilular state. Dose, 4 grains. 

Ferri Chloridum, Ferric Chloride, Iron Perchloride or Sesqui- 
chloride of Iron. It is made by evaporating a solution of Chloride 
of Iron. It is seen in orange yellow crystalline pieces. It is used 
externally as a styptic and internally as a tonic. Dose, 1 to 5 grs. 

Ferrous Salts are usually green in color, and Ferric Salts are 
brown. 

Ferri et Ammonii Citras, Iron and Ammonium Citrate, Soluble 
Ferric Citrate. It is Ferric Citrate rendered more soluble by the 
addition of Ammonium Citrate. It occurs in transparent garnet 
red scales and is soluble in water, insoluble in alcohol. 

Ferri et Quinhiae Citras, Iron and Quinine Citrate, was called 
Iron and Quinine Citrate Soluble in U. S. P. 8. It contains 11.5% 
Anhydrous Quinine and 13% Iron. Made by dissolving Citrate of 
Iron in water by the aid of a little heat, and dissolve Quinine and 
Citric Acid in water. Mix the two solutions and add Ammonia 
Water and evaporate to a syrupy liquid. Spread on glass so as 
to obtain in scale form. It is an Iron Salt that contains an Alka¬ 
loid. It is made soluble by the addition. 

The Salts of Iron is made soluble by the addition of an Alkaline 
Citrate, such as Citrate of Ammonia. 

Ferri Phosphas, Ferric Phosphate, is a soluble salt of iron, 
made so by the addition of Sodium Citrate. Dose of last of these 
is 4 grains. 

Ferri Sulphas, Ferrous Sulphate, called Iron Protosulphate, 
the impure known as Copperas or Green Vitriol, FeS04. It is a 
greenish crystal and on exposure to air it oxidizes and is coated 
with a brownish yellow which is basic Ferric Sulphate. It is a 
powerful iron astringent. Copperas is used as a disinfectant. 
The dose of the C. P. is V/ 2 grains. It is used for making the two 
following salts. Insoluble in alcohol. 

Ferri Sulphas Exsiccatus, Exsiccated Ferrous Sulphate, Dried 
Ferrous Sulphate. One hundred gms. of Ferrous Sulphate yields 


121 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 

about 65 grains. It is a grayish white powder, slowly soluble in 
water. Dose, 1 grain. 

Ferri Sulphas Granulatus , Granulated Ferrous Sulphate, called 
Precipitated Ferrous Sulphate. Made by dissolving Ferrous Sul¬ 
phate in boiling water, add Dil. Sulphuric Acid, then evaporate, 
filter and pour alcohol over it and spread on bibulous paper and 
dry at room temperature. It is a pale blueish green crystalline 
powder. Dose, iy 2 grains. It is used for making Blaud’s Pills. 

Ferri Carbonas Saccharatus, Saccharated Ferrous Carbonate. 
It is made from Ferrous Sulphate, Sodium Bicarbonate, Dilute 
Sulphuric Acid, water, sugar and sugar of milk. It is a greenish 
brown powder slightly soluble in water, made more soluble by the 
addition of HC1. Dose, 4 grains, as a tonic. 

Iron Rust is Hydrated Ferric Oxide. 

Ferric Hydroxide , N. F., Fe(OH)3. It is made by adding a 
solution of Ferric Sulphate to Ammonia Water and collecting the 
precipitate. It is used as an Arsenic Antidote, but is not the 
official one. The official one is Ferri Hydroxidum Cum Magnesii 
Oxido—Ferric Hydroxide with Magnesium Oxide. Dose, 4 fluid 
ounces. 

Zmcum, symbol Zn, valence 2, atomic weight 65. It is found as 
the impure Carbonate, called Calamine, and the element can be 
obtained by roasting. Prepared Calamine is in the N. F. The 
element is a blueish white metal seen in thin sheets. It is dissolved 
by Dilute Sulphuric or Hydrochloric Acid with an evolution of 
Hydrogen. 

Zinci Chloridum, ZnC12, is a very deliquescent salt, very caustic 
and should not be tasted. Used externally as an antiseptic and 
disinfectant. Very soluble. 

Zinci Oxidum, ZnO, is a very heavy powder, used mostly ex¬ 
ternally. Ointment U. S. P. It is insoluble in water or alcohol. 
Internal dose, 1. grain. 

Zinci Phenolsulphonas, Zinc Phenolsulphonate, called Sulpho- 
carbolate Zinc. Zn (C6H50.S03) 2. It is seen in white crystals, 
used as an antiseptic and given internally in 2-grain doses. Solu¬ 
ble in 1.6 mils, water. It is acid to litmus. 


122 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Zinci Stearns, Zinc Stearate, is‘a compound of Zinc with Stearic 
Acid and small amount of Palmitic Acid. Contains 13% Zinc 
Oxide. It is made from Acetate Zinc. Used as a dusting powder. 

Zinci Acetas, Zn (C2H302)2, seen in soft white six-sided mono¬ 
clinic plates. Soluble in 2 mils, of water. Dose, 2 grains. 

Precipitated Carbonate of Zinc is U. S. P. Fine white powder 
without odor or taste. 

Zinci Sulphas, ZnS04, known as White Vitriol, is the most 
common salt of Zinc. Seen in white crystals or crystalline pow¬ 
der: It is used as an astringent in one grain doses. Prompt 
emetic in 15-grain doses. 

Zinci Valeras is Zinc Valerianate, Zn (C5H902)2. Seen in 
pearly white scales or powder. Used as nervine and antispas- 
modic. Dose, 1 to 3 grains. It is one of the instances of upward 
precipitation. Made from Sodium Valerate and Zinc Sulphate. 
It is soluble in 22 mils, alcohol and 70 mils, water. 


LECTURE No. 52 

Hydrargyrum, symbol Hg , atomic weight 200, Sp. G. 13.5. It 
is Mercury, known as Quicksilver. It is found in Spain and Cali¬ 
fornia. Found as the Sulphide, called Cinnabar, and it is only 
necessary to heat this ore and obtain the element in a free state. 
It is a shining, silver-white metal; liquid at ordinary temperature 
and freezes at 40 degrees C., below zero. 

Mercury is used in the metallic state in medicine more than 
any other element. The following preparations are made direct 
from the element: Mercurial Ointment, Diluted Mercurial Oint¬ 
ment, Mercury with Chalk, and Mass of Mercury. 

Mercury is prepared for medical use by straining through 
chamois skin. It is poisonous but when taken in one-pound doses 
it passes through the body without ill effects. 

A Test for Mercury Salts: Iodide of Potash produces a green 
precipitate with Mercurous Salts, and a red precipitate with 
Mercuric Salts. 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


123 


Mercury forms two classes of compounds: Ous and Ic. The valence 
of “ous” compound is 1 and ‘ ic” 2. 

When Cold Nitric Acid is added to Mercury we get Mercurous 
Nitrate and when Hot Nitric Acid is added we get Mercuric 
Nitrate. 

Hydrargyri Iodidum Flavum is Yellow Mercurous Iodide, called 
Protoiodide of Mercury. Green Iodide of Mercury, Yellow Iodide 
of Mercury, Hgl. On exposure to light it becomes greenish as it 
undergoes decomposition. It is a bright yellow powder used as 
an alterative in 1/6 grain doses. Made by dissolving Mercury in 
Nitric Acid and adding a solution of Iodide of Potash and collect¬ 
ing the precipitate. 

Hydrargyri Iodidum Rubrum , Red Mercuric Iodide, called Bin- 
iodide of Mercury. It is a scarlet red powder, odorless and perma¬ 
nent in the air. The formula is HgI2. It is made by adding a 
solution of Corrosive Sublimate to a Solution of Iodide of Potash 
and collecting the precipitate. It is used as an alterative in 1/20 
grain doses. Externally it is a vesicant. 

Both the above salts are almost insoluble in water and insoluble 
in alcohol. 

Hydrargyri Oxidum Flavum is Yellow Mercuric Oxide, HgO. 
It is an orange-yellow powder used externally and enters into 
Oleate of Mercury and Ointment of Yellow Oxide of Mercury. It 
is made by pouring a solution of Corrosive Sublimate into a solu¬ 
tion of Sodium Hydroxide and collecting the precipitate. 

Hydrargyri Oxidum Rubrum is Red Mercuric Oxide, HgO, 
called Red Precipitate. It is an orange-red crystalline powder, 
made by heating Mercuric Nitrate until it ceases to give off red 
fumes and washing with alcohol and water. Used to destroy 
vermin, and externally for skin diseases. 

We have two Iodides of Mercury: Yellow Mercurous Iodide and 
Red Mercuric Iodide. 

We have two Oxides of Mercury: Yellow Oxide of Mercury and 
Red Oxide of Mercury, both “ic” salts and both HgO. 

We have two Chlorides of Mercury: Mercurous Chloride Mild, 
HgCl, and Corrosive Mercuric Chloride, HgC12. 


124 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


Hydrargyrum Cum Creta, Mercury with Chalk, called Gray 
Powder. Made by shaking Mercury, clarified honey and water in 
a bottle until the Mercury is invisible under a magnifying glass 
magnifying 4 diameters, than add Prepared Chalk and mix thor¬ 
oughly. This simply reduces the Mercury to minute globules. It 
is of a light gray color and should be free from grittiness. It 
should be protected from light and air as on exposure it develops 
into* higher salt of Mercury. The dose is 4 grains. Mostly given 
to children. 

Hydrargyrum Ammoniatum, Ammoniated Mercury, called 
White Precipitate, HgNH2Cl. Made by pouring a solution of 
Ammonia Water into a solution of Corrosive Sublimate. It is a 
poisonous white powder, on exposure gradually turning yellow 
and changing into a higher salt. The Ointment is U. S. P. and is 
10% strength. 

Hydrargyri Chloridum Corrosivum is Corrosive Mercuric Chlo¬ 
ride, HgC12, called Bichloride of Mercury, Corrosive Sublimate, 
and Perchloride of Mercury. It is 99.5% pure. It is very poison¬ 
ous and the sale of it should be recorded in a Poison Register. It 
is soluble in 13 parts of water and 2 parts of boiling water, and 
very soluble in alcohol. It can be made more soluble by the addi¬ 
tion of a Chloride. It is used internally as an alterative in 1/20 
grain doses. Used externally as an antiseptic. It is made by 
heating Mercury with Sulphuric Acid, adding Sodium Chloride 
and subliming. It is seen as coarse crystals or white powder, 
odorless and a characteristic taste. 

Hydrargyri Chloridum Mite is Mild Mercurous Chloride, called 
Calomel, Subchloride of Mercury and Protochloride of Mercury, 
also Submuriate of Mercury. It is a white impalpable powder 
and becoming yellowish-white under strong pressure. It is insol¬ 
uble in water, alcohol or ether or cold dilute acids. It should be 
kept protected from light and air, as it will decompose. It should 
not be dispensed with Alkalies or Alkaline Salts as it would be 
converted into higher salt of Mercury. It is used as an alterative 
in 54-grain doses, and as a laxative in 254-grain doses. It is made 
from Mercury, Sulphuric Acid and Sodium Chloride. Take part 


ESSENTIALS OF PHARMACY 


125 


of the Mercury and heat with the Sulphuric Acid, this forms 
Mercuric Sulphate, then rub up with the remainder of the Mer¬ 
cury, which forms Mercurous Sulphate, then add Sodium Chloride 
and sublime. 

Hydrargyri Salicylas, Mercuric Salicylate. It is a white, 
slightly yellowish or pinkish powder, made from Corrosive Sub¬ 
limate, Sodium Hydroxide, and Salicylic Acid. It should contain 
not less than 54% Metallic Mercury. Average dose, 1/15 grain. 
It is insoluble in water or alcohol. It is used hypodermically by 
mixing with Quinine and Urea, Distilled Water, Anhydrous Wool 
Fat and Liquid Petrolatum. 



IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


Official name: Podophyllum ; Common name: May Apple— 
Mandrake; Pharmacopeial definition: Rhizome and roots of Podo¬ 
phyllum Peltatum (botanical name); Natural order or family: 
Berberdaceae; Habitat: North America; Medical properties: 
Cathartic; Active Constituent: Resin; Dose: 3 grs.; U. S. Prep¬ 
arations: Fluid Extract, Resin. 

Official name: Cambogia ; Common name: Gamboge—Pipe Gam- 
boga; Pharmacopeial definition: Gum-resin obtained from Gar - 
cinia Hanburii (botanical name); Natural order or family: 
Guttiferae ; Habitat: Siam; Medical properties: Hydrogue ca¬ 
thartic; Active constituent: Resin; Dose: 2 grs.; U. S. Prepara¬ 
tions: Enters into C. C. Pills. 

Official name: Oleo^im Theobromatis ; Common name: Oil of 
Theobroma , Cacao Butter; Pharmacopeial definition: A concrete 
fixed oil obtained from the roasted seed of Theobroma Cacao 
(botanical name) ; Natural order or family: Sterculiaceae; Hab¬ 
itat: Mexico; Medical properties: Used in making suppositories; 
Active constituent: Palmatin. 

The botanical name of a drug, often called the botanical origin, 
is the name recognized by the botanist (usually the last two 
names in the definition). 

The habitat is where it was first found in the wild state. 

Fixed Oils and fats consist of three principles: Olein, the liquid, 
and Palmatin and Stearin, the solids. 

Chocolate contains an alkaloid which is identical with caffein. 
It is called Theobromine. Theobromine-Sodio Salicylate is the 
same as Diuretin and is U. S. P. 

Geranium is Cranesbill of the N. O. Geranacea. Used as an 
astringent in 15-grain doses. It contains Tannin. Not U. S. P. 

Comp. Cathartic Pills contain Calomel, Ext. Colocynth, /Co. 
Powd. Camboge and Resin of Jalap. 



128 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


Podophyllum is a perennial plant with a straight stem and one 
white flower, growing in moist woods of N. A. 

The Gamboge tree grows to about 40 feet in height, large, 
smooth leaves and small flowers and clustered fruit. The resin 
flows as a thick viscid yellow liquid from the tree when cut and 
becomes hard on exposure. It contains 70% resin and 20% gum. 
It comes to the market in rolls or pipes or solid cylinders. 

Gambogic Acid is a bright yellow color and used by painters 
to lacure brass. It has no odor but an acrid taste. 

Theobroma Cacao , the Chocolate Tree, name from the Greek 
word meaning “Food for the Gods.” It grows about 16 to 20 feet 
and one cultivated tree can yield about 15 pounds of cured coco. 
The fruit is 6 to 8 inches in length, the rind thick and watery, 
pulp sweet, and the seed are the cacao beans of commerce. 

Official name: Serpentaria; Common name: Texas Snakeroot— 
Virginia Snakeroot; Pharmacopeial definition:The dried rhizome 
and roots of Aristolochia Reticulata (T) ae, and Aristolochia 
Serpentaria (V); Natural order or family: Aristolochiace; Hab¬ 
itat: United States; Medical properties: Stimulant; Active con¬ 
stituent: Volatile Oil; Dose, 15 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: 
Enters into Tr. Cinchona Co. 

Official name: Nux Vomica; Common name: Dog Button— 
Quaker Button—Poison Nut; Pharmacopeial definition: The dried 
ripe seeds of Strychnos Nux Vomica, yielding not less than 2.5% 
of the alkaloids of Nux Vomica; Natural order or family: Loga- 
niaceae; Habitat: India; Medical properties: Tonic; Active con¬ 
stituents: Strychnine, Brucine; Dose: 1 gr.; U. S. P. Prepara¬ 
tions: Tincture Ext. and Fluid Ext. 

Official name: Gelsemium; Common name: Yellow Jasmine— 
Yellow Jessamine; Pharmacopeial definition: The dried rhizome 
and roots of Gelsemium Sempervirens; Natural order or family: 
Loganiaceae; Habitat: Southern United States; Medical proper¬ 
ties: Nerve Sedative; Active constituent: Gelsemine — Gelsemi- 
nine; Dose, ^4 gr.; U. S. P. Preparations: Ext., Fluid Extract 
and Tincture. 

Official name: Spigelia; Common name: Pinkroot, Carolina 


129 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 

Pink; Pharmacopeial definition: The dried rhizome and roots of 
Spigelia Marilandica; Natural order or family: Loganiaceae; 
Habitat: U. S.; Medical properties: Anthelmintic; Active con¬ 
stituents: Alkaloid, Spigeline and Volatile Oil; Dose: 60 grs.; 
U. S. P. Preparations: Fluid Extract. 

Aristolaceae is derived from the Greek word meaning favoring 1 
childbirth. 

Serpentaria is a small herbaceous plant growing in rich shady 
woods, has purple flowers growing from joints near the roots. 
It is an emmenagogue, expectorant, tonic and diuretic. In small 
doeses it promotes appetite and digestion. It is chiefly used as a 
stimulant in combination. 

Nux Vomica is a native tree of Ceylon, E. I., of modest size. 
The fruit is about the size of an orange with brittle shell with 
several seeds in a pulpy fruit, very poisonous. Thirty grains of 
Nux Vomica have produced death in half hour; half grain Strych¬ 
nine in 14 minutes. The antidote is Tannin, which forms an in¬ 
soluble tannate. 

Nux Vomica is chiefly employed as a tonic and stimulant for the 
heart and nervous system. It is good in Tr. form for habitual 
cough caused by nervousness, sick headache, one minim doeses 
every 15 minutes. 

Brucine acts exactly like Strychnine except it is absorbed more 
slowly. The dose of Brucine is 1/10 to 1/3 grain. 

Strychnine produces tetanic spasms. The average dose is 1/40 
grain; can be given as high as 1/6 if gradually increased. It acts 
as an aphrodisiac, good for the sight caused by excessive alcohol 
or tobacco use. 

Gelsemium is a climbing plant of the forest of the South. It 
has bright yellow flowers and forms festoons from one tree to 
another. It is a heart depressant and should not be used with a 
weak heart. It is used for spinal meningitis, delirium tremens, 
sleeplessness, after-pains and ovarian neuralgia. It has the prop¬ 
erty of calming the mental capacity where there is constant dread, 
such as a woman about to become a mother or students preparing 
for a final examination. It is considered good in sciatica. It con- 


130 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


tains two alkaloids, Gelsemine and Gelseminine, the latter an 
amorphous, highly poisonous substance. The maximum dose is 
2 grs. The antidote is Carbonate of Ammonia or Arom. Spts. 
Ammonia and Morphine. 

Spigelia was named for Adrin Vonder Spigel, a Belgian physi¬ 
cian. It is a perennial herbaceous plant with large, showy, scarlet 
flowers. It is used as an anthelmentic in combination with Senna. 
In large doses it is a dangerous cathartic, often producing vertigo, 
dimness of vision and dilated pupils, spasms and convulsions; 
therefore it is best prescribed in combination with a purgative. 

Spigeline is a toxic alkaloid. 

Spigelia Anthelmia is Worm Grass. Not U. S. P. Was used 
as cardiac affections caused from rheumatism. 

Official name: Cardamonni Semen; Common name: Cardamom 
Seed—Cardamon Seed; Pharmacopeial definition: The dried seeds 
of Elettaria Cardcmwmum; Natural order or family: Zingi- 
beraceae; Habitat: India; Medical properties: Carminative; Ac¬ 
tive constituent: Volatile Oil; Dose: 15 grs. 

Official name: Zingiber; Common name: Ginger; Pharmaco¬ 
peial definition: The dried rhizomes of Zingiber Officinale; Nat¬ 
ural order or family: Zingiberaceae; Habitat: Africa; Medical 
properties: Stimulant; Active constituents: Oil and resin; Dose: 
15 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: Resin, Tr., Fluid Extract. 

Official name: Benzoinum; Common name: Benzoin; Pharma¬ 
copeial definition: Balsamic Resin from Styrax Benzoin; Natural 
order or family: Zingiberaceae; Habitat: Siam; Medical proper¬ 
ties: Stimulant; Active constituent: Benzoic Acid; Dose, 15 grs.; 
U. S. P. Preparations: Tr. Co., Tr. Lar. 

Official name: Ergota; Common name: Ergot—Secale Cornu- 
tum—Spurred Rye; Pharmacopeial definition: The dried Sclero- 
tium of Claviceps-purpurea, replacing the grain of rye; Natural 
order or family: Hypocreaceae; Habitat: Europe; Medical prop¬ 
erties: Ecbolic Parturient; Active constituent: Ergotinine, Ergo- 
toxine; Dose: 30 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: Ext. and Fluid Ext. 

A Sclerotium is a hard, compact substance of fungi. 


131 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 

Cardamon Seed should be removed from the capsules. They 
cantain 4.5% Volatile Oil. They are used in Aromatic Powder and 
F. E. They destroy griping of other drugs. In Asia they are 
used as a food. Name means spice plant. 

Benzoin is obtained from a tree native to Sumatra and Siam. 
The first comes to the market in blocks or lumps varying in size. 
Siam Benzoin is in pebble-like tiers and yellowish to rusty brown 
externally. It has a vanilla-like taste. 

Tincture of Benzoin is used in face preparations. Cmpound 
Tincture, known as Frier’s Balsam, is used as an inhalation. 

Benzoic Acid is an organic acid made from Benzoin, also pre¬ 
pared from Toluol, a coal-tar product. It can be made from cattle 
urin. It is used for rendering alkaline urin acid, also stimulating 
the vesical mucous membrane. Benzoic Acid enters into Pare¬ 
goric. The dose is 8 grains. 

Jamaica Ginger is rhizomes with the corky layer removed. It 
is often made white by steeping in a solution of Precipitated 
Chalk. 

African Ginger, known as Race Ginger, is placed in boiling 
water before drying. 

Dr. Hardman’s Ginger Beer— V/ 2 ounces ginger, 1 ounce cream 
of tartar, V/ 2 ounces sugar, mixed and placed in earthen jar 
with gallon of boiling water; when cool add 4 ounces of yeast, 
cover with blanket and let stand in a warm place over night. 
Strain and bottle in well-stoppered bottles for three days. 

The active constituents of Ergot are Ergotoxin, Ergotinine, 
Tyramine and Histamine. Tyramine resembles Epinephrine. 
Ergotoxin can be converted into Ergotinine by the abstraction of 
one molecule of water. Histamine lowers blood pressure. 

Official name: Cascara Sagrada; Common name: Rhamnus 
Purshiana, Chittem Bark, Sacred Bark; Pharmacopeial defini¬ 
tion: The dried bark Rhamnus Purshiana; Natural order or 
family: Rhamnaceae; Habitat: United States; Medical proper¬ 
ties: Cathartic; Active constituents: Contains Emodin and Fran- 
gulic Acid; Dose, 15 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: Ext.—F. E. and 
Arom. F. E. 


132 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


Official name: Frangula; Common name: Buckthorn Bark; 
Pharmacopeial definition: The dried bark of Rhamnus Frangula; 
Natural order or family: Rhamnaceae; Habitat: Europe; Medi¬ 
cal properties: Cathartic; U. S. P. Preparations: Fluid Extracts. 

Official name: Lycopodium; Common name: Vegetable Sulphur, 
Club Moss; Pharmacopeial definition: The spores of Lycopodium 
Clavatum; Natural order or family: Lycopodiaceae; Habitat: 
Europe; Medical properties: 47% Fixed Oil. 

The family Rhamnaceae contains about ninety species, which 
are mostly shrubs or low trees. 

Cascara grows in California to a height of 15 to 20 feet with 
leaves 3 to 5 inches in length, with white flowers after leaves 
mature. During the process of drying the Frangulic Acid and 
Cascarin split up and form Emodin (CHO). The powder is col¬ 
ored dark orange by Ammonia. 

Frangula is a tree-like small shrub, known as berry-bearing 
Alder, as it bears small black berries, and they are used to dye 
wool green and yellow when unripe, and blue, gray and emerald 
when ripe. The flowers are very small. The powdered bark is a 
light yellowish brown and colors the saliva yellow. Powdered 
Frangula turns a deep red with Ammonia. 

Important. —The above barks should be kept for one year be¬ 
fore using, as this makes them more definite in strength and 
destroys the griping principle. Frangula is milder in its action 
than Cascara. Magnesium Oxide is used in making the Arom. 
Fluid Extract to destroy the bitter principle. 

Lycopodaceae is the Club Moss family and the species are in- 
diginous to dry woods, rocks and hill tops. It is claimed by 
homeopathics to be an active drug when triturated with sugar of 
milk. Used for dyspepsia and even diphtheria. 

Official name: Colocynthis; Common name: Bitter Apple; Phar¬ 
macopeial definition: The dried pulp of the fruit Citrullus Colo¬ 
cynthis.; Natural order or family: Cucurbitaceae; Habitat: Asia; 
Medical properties: Hyd. Cath.; Active constituent: Colocynthin; 
U. S. P. Preparations: Ext., Comp. Ext. 

Official name: Elaterinum; Common name: Elaterin; Pharma- 


133 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 

copeial definition: A principle obtained from ElateriuTn, a sub¬ 
stance deposited by the juice of the fruit Ecballium Elaterium; 
Natural order or family: Cucurbitaceae; Habitat: Europe; Medi¬ 
cal properties: Drast. Cath., used for the trituration; Dose: 1/20 
grain. 

Official name: Pepo; Common name: Pumpkin Seed; Pharma- 
copeial definition: The dried ripe seed of the cultivated varieties 
of Cucurbita Pepo; Natural order or family: Cucurbitaceae; 
Habitat: Asia; Medical properties: Taenifuge; Active constit¬ 
uents: Oil, Resin; Dose: 1 oz. 

Notes.— Cucuribitaceae is the gourd family. Colocynth is also 
known as Bitter Cucumber and Vine of Sodom. The plant is 
closely allied to the cucumber. It grows mostly in Turkey, Africa 
and Spain, the latter being the main source for commerce. The 
fruit resembles that of an orange in size and color, but a very 
hard rind, which is removed and the pulp then dried. The seed are 
bland and are used for food in Africa. 

Elat’erin is a neutral principle obtained from the juice of the 
wild or Squirting Cucumber, which is a fruit about 1 y 2 inches 
long growing on an herbaceous vine. The juice exudes from 
around the seed and is very thick mucous with a sediment; in this 
is the Elaterin, which is obtained by treating with Chloroform and 
then precipitating with Ether. It is a very drastic cathartic and 
cardiac depressant and should be given with care. 

Official name: Lobelia; Common name Indian Tobacco; Phar- 
macopeial definition: Dried leaves and flowering tops of Lobelia 
Inflata; Natural order or family: Lobeliaceae ; Habitat: United 
States; Medical properties: Expct.; Active constituent: Lobeline; 
Dose: 2 y 2 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: Tr. F. E. 

Notes.—Libelia is a weed having pale green leaves and pale 
blue flowers. It is also known as Asthma Weed as it .is an anti- 
spasmodic. An infusion of the leaves as a local application for 
poison oak. It was named for Mathew Lobel, who was the physi¬ 
cian to James I of England. It was introduced into Europe in 
1829. Lobeline is a liquid alkaloid. 

Official name: Rheum; Common name: Rhubarb; Pharmaco- 


134 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


peial definition: The rhizomes and roots of Rheum Officinale , de¬ 
prived of most of its bark tissues, grown in China and Thibet, 
dried and preserved by a few drops of Chloroform from time to 
time; Natural order or family: Polygonaceae; Habitat: Asia; 
Medical properties: Cathartic, Astringent; Active constituents: 
Chrysophan, C. Acid, Tannic Acid, Emodin: Dose: 15 grs.; U. S. 
P. Preparations: Ext.. F. E., Tr. Arom. Tr.; Pill and Powder are 
U. S. P. 

Notes.— Polygonaceae is known as the Buckwheat family. The 
Rhubarb 'grown in the United States has no cathartic effect. 
Chrysophan , Emodin are the cathartic principles of Rhubarb. 
When it is roasted it loses its cathartic effects but retains its 
astringent properties. It is then called Torified Rhubarb. If 
powdered Rhubarb is adulterated with Powder Turmeric, a solu¬ 
tion of Bori£ Acid will turn it brown. 

Official name: Guarana; Common name: Guar ana; Pharma- 
copeial definition: A dried paste of the crushed seed of Paullinia 
Cupana, yielding 4% Caffeine; Natural order or family: Sapin- 
daceae; Habitat: S. A.: Medical properties: Stimulant; Active 
constituent: Caffeine; Dose: 30 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: F. E. 
Official. 

Official name: Triticum; Common name: Couch Grass, Dog 
Grass; Pharmacopeial definition: Rhizome and roots of Agropy- 
ron Repens; Natural order or family: Gramineae', Habitat: 
United States; Medical properties: Diuretic; Active constituent: 
Triticin; Dose: 60 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: F. E. 

Official name: Amylum; Common name: Starch, Corn Starch; 
Pharmacopeial definition: The starch separated from the grain 
Zea Mays; Natural order or family: Gramineae; Habitat: United 
States; Medical properties: Absorbent; U. S. P. Preparation: 
Glycerite. . 

Official name: Saccharum; Common name: Sugar, Sucrose; 
Pharmacopeial definition: Sucrose (C12H22011), obtained from 
cultivated varieties of Saccharum Officinarum and Beta Vulgaris. 

Zea is corn silk, the styles and stigmas of Zea Mays. It is not 
U. S. P. but Fluid Extract is used as a diuretic. 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


135 


Beta Vulgaris is the beet, and the sugar beet is a form of the 
common beet and the cultivation greatly increases the percentage 
of sugar. 

Official name: Myristica; Common name: Nutmeg; Pharmaco- 
peial definition: The kernels of the ripe seed of Myristica Fra- 
grans; Natural order or family: Myristicaceae ; Habitat: E. I.; 
Medical properties: Carminative; Active constituent: Volatile 
Oil; Dose: 8 grs. 

The Arilli, which is the fleshy covering of the nutmeg, is known 
as Mace. It was U. S. P. but not now. It yields a fixed oil by 
expression known as Mace Butter. 

Official name: Calumba; Common name: Columba, Columbo; 
Pharmacopeial definition: The dried root of Jateorhiza Palmata; 
Natural order or family: Menispermaceae; Habitat: Africa; 
Medical properties: Bitter Tonic (no Tannin); Active constitu¬ 
ent: Columbin; Dose: 30 grs.; U. S. P. Preparation: Tr. 

We have three bitter tonics which contain no Tannin. They are 
Calumba, Gentian, and Quassa. 

Pareira, know as Pareira Brava, is the roots of Chondroden- 
dron Tomentosum and belongs to the above order but it is not 
U. S. P. Used as diuretic and laxative. 

Official name: Sanguinaria; Common name: Blood Root; Phar¬ 
macopeial definition: Rhizome and roots of Sanguinaria Cana¬ 
densis ; Natural order or family: Papaveraceae; Habitat: N. A.; 
Medical properties: Alterative; Active constituent: Sanguina- 
rine: Dose: 2 grains; U. S. P. Preparation: Tr. 

Sanguinarine is a colorless alkaloid but yields red salts. 

Official name: Opium; Common name: Opium, Thebiacum 
Meconin; Pharmacopeial definition: The air-dried, milky exuda¬ 
tion obtained by incising the unripe capsules of Papaver Sonini- 
ferum, and yielding in its normal, moist condition not less than 
9.5% Anhydrous Morphine; Natural order or family: Papavera¬ 
ceae; Habitat: Asia; Medical properties: Anodyne, Narcotic, 
Hypnotic; Active constituents: Morphine, Codeine, Narcotine, 
Thebaine; Dose: 1 gr. 

Opium is official in four forms: Powdered, Deodorized, Granu- 


136 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


lated and in flattened masses. Deodorized Opium is made from 
Powdered Opium by macerating 1 and percolating with purified 
Petroleum Benzin, which removes the narcotine and odorous prin¬ 
ciples. 

Paregoric and Dover’s Powders are both made with Powdered 
Opium. 

Tincture of Opium (Laudanum) and Tincture Opium Deodor¬ 
ized are made from Granulated Opium. 

Extract of Opium is made from Opium cut in small pieces, 
macerated and percolated with water, evaporated to dryness and 
mixed with starch. 

Opium contains twenty-one alkaloids, but owes its value to the 
narcotic alkaloids, Morphine and Codeine. 

Narcotine is not a narcotic, but is said to be anti-periodic. 

Thebaine is a powerful convulsant, exalting the spinal cord 
like Strychnine. 

Cotarnine is prepared from Narcotine and is a powerful styptic 
and hemostatic by contraction. 

The chief use of Opium is to relieve pain from any cause, pro¬ 
duce sleep, to allay irritation in acute nervousness, to check ex¬ 
cessive secretion, as in dysentery diabetes. 

Opium and Morphine will relieve pain from any cause except 
acute inflammation of the brain. 

Pills of Opium, not^U. S. P., contain one grain of Opium made 
into a mass with soap and water. 

Magendies’ Solution of Morphine contains 16 grains to fl. oz. 

Godfrey's Cordial contains y 2 gr. Opium to ounce. 

Tincture of Opium (Laudanum) contains 48 grains Opium to 
the fluid ounce. 

Ten minims equals one grain of Opium or grain Morphine. 
Sixty minims of this tincture equals about 120 drops. 

Half an ounce of Paregoric contains one grain of Opium, or 
Y% grain Morphine. Dose for infant, 5 to 20 gtts. 

Apomorphine Hydrochloride is the most powerful emetic known. 
It is the hydrochloride of an alkaloid obtained from Morphine. 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


137 


Dose—Expectorant dose, 1/20; emetic by mouth, 1/6, and hypo- 
dermatically, 1/12 grain. 

Hypnotics are drugs which produce sleep. 

Narcotics are drugs which produce sleep and relieve pain. 

The antidote for Opium and Morphine: Strong coffee, stomach 
pump, Permanganate of Potash in 4-grain doses dissolved in 
water, given by the mouth every 15 minutes, which destroys the 
Morphine by oxidation. Atropine is the physiological anitdote. 

Atropine and Morphine are frequently prescribed in combina¬ 
tion in proportion to Atropine 1/120 and Morphine 1/4. The 
anodyne and hypnotic effects of Morphine are decreased and nau¬ 
sea and depression are avoided. Atropine in the above doses is a 
cardiac and respiratory stimulant and will counteract the de¬ 
pressing effect of Morphine on the heart. 

Tincture Opii, called Laudanum, made from Granulated Opium 
by pouring boiling water upon it and let stand for 12 hours, then 
add alcohol and let stand for 24 hours, then percolate with dilute 
alcohol. Dose, 8- minims. 

All Opium preparations are 10% strength except Paregoric 
which is 2/5, and the Extract which is 20. 

Tinctura Opii Camphorata, Camphorated Tincture of Opium, 
is Paregoric. The P. I. name is Opii Tinctura Benzoici. It con¬ 
tains Powdered Opium, Benzoic Acid, Camphor, Oil of Anise, 
Glycerin and Dilute Alcohol. Made by macerating for three days 
and filter. Dose, one fluid drachm. 

Children are much more susceptible to Opium and Morphine 
than adults. To a child one day old, one drop of Laudanum has 
proven fatal. A nursing mother given an adult dose caused death 
to the infant. 

Official name: Hydrastis; Common name: Golden Seal, Yellow 
Root, Yellow Purccoon; Pharmacopeial definition: Rhizome and 
roots of Hydrastis Canadensis , yielding 2.5% ether-soluble alka¬ 
loids of Hydrastis; Natural order or family: Ranunculaceae; 
Habitat: N. A.; Medical properties: Alterative; Active constit¬ 
uents: Hydrastine, Berberine; Dose, 30 grs.; U. S. P. Prepara¬ 
tions: Ext. F. E.. Tr. Glycerite. 


138 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


Official name: Cimicifuga; Common name: Macrotys, Black 
Snakeroot, Black Cohosh; Pharmacopeial definition: Rhizome 
and roots of Cimicifuga Racemosa; Natural order or family: 
Ranunculaceae; Habitat: N. A.; Medical properties: Anti-spas¬ 
modic; Active constituents: Cimicifugin, Macrotin; Dose: 15 grs.; 
U. S. P. Preparations: Ext. and F. E. 

Official name: Staphisagria; Common name: Stavesacre; Phar¬ 
macopeial definition: Seed of Delphinium, Staphisagria; Natural 
order or family: Ranunculaceae; Habitat: Europe; Medical prop¬ 
erties: Stimulant; Active constituent: Delphinine; Dose, 1 gr. 

It is also used externally for vermin. 

Delphinium Consolidum is Larkspur, N. F. 

Official name: Aconitam; Common name: Aconite, Monk’s 
Hood; Pharmacopeial definition: The tuberous root of Aconitum 
Napellus, yielding .5 c 7c Aconitine; Natural order or family: 
Ranunculaceae', Habitat: Europe; Medical properties: Sedative; 
Active constituent: Aconitine; Dose: Yi gr.; U. S. P. Prepara¬ 
tions Ext., F. E. and Tine. 

Notes on Above Drugs.— Hydrastis is used as an alterative and 
tonic. It is especially good for sore mouth caused from syphilis. 
In powder or given in capsules, it is good for ulcerated stomach. 
In liquid for use as injection for gonorrhea and catarrhal affec¬ 
tions. The Glycerite is the only preparation of it that will mix 
with water without precipitating the yellow resin. It contains 
a glucoside, Hydrastin. Hydrastine, the alkaloid, differs from 
Berberine by being soluble in ether and.insoluble in water. Hy¬ 
drastine is white and Berberine is yellow. 

Hydrastinine Hydrochloride is the hydrochloride of an artificial 
alkaloid derived from Hydrastine. Dose, *4 gr. It is an oxytocic. 

Aconite contains the alkaloids Aconitine, U. S. P. Benzaconine, 
and Aconine. Benzaconine with a mixture of Aconine forms an 
alkaloid called Napelline. 

Aconitine is U. S. P. and the dose is 1/400 of a grain. It is a 
white powder soluble in alcohol and chloroform. 

When Aconite is chewed it is very bitter and produces a tingling 
or numbness of the tongue. 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


139 


Aconite is very poisonous and should be tasted with caution. 
Dose, y* gr. F. E., y 2 minim. Tincture, 5 minims. Fleming’s 
Tr. is 70% strength. Dose. 1 minim. 

It is best administered in small doses and repeated often. 

Official name: Valeriana; Common name: Valerian; Pharma- 
copeial definition: Rhizome and roots of Valeriana Officinalis; 
Natural order or family: Valerianaceae; Habitat: Europe; Medi¬ 
cal properties: Antispasmodic; Active constituents: Valeric Acid, 
Formic Acid; Dose: 30 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: Tr., Ammo- 
niated Tinct. 

Valerian is a perennial plant with small white or rose-colored 
flowers, growing in ditches and moist woods of Asia. Its name 
was derived from the word meaning strong. 

Valeric Acid is an organic acid with a characteristic odor and 
a volatile liquid. Can be obtained from Valerian by distilling the 
roots with water containing H2S04, but it is not the Valeric Acid 
of Pharmacy, as that is obtained by the oxidation of fats, or 
Amylic Alcohol, from which the various Valerianates are pre¬ 
pared. 

Official name: Guaiacum; Common name: Guaiac; Pharmaco- 
peial definition: Resin of the wood Guaiacum Officinale ; Natural 
order or family: Zygophyllaceae; Habitat: S. A.; Medical prop¬ 
erties Anti-rheumatic; Active constituent: Guaiaconic Acid; 
Dose: 15 grs. 

The Guaiac Tree grows to a height of about 60 feet, in Cuba 
and Jamaica. The wood is exported in billets 3 to 5 feet long, the 
heartwood being used. It is of greenish brown color. 

Guaiacic Acid resembles Benzoic Acid. The U. S. P. Prepara¬ 
tions are the Tincture and the Ammoniated Tincture. 

We have two Tinctures made with Aromatic Spirit of Ammonia 
as the menstrum; they are Valerian and Guaiac. 

Official name: Linum; Common name: Linseed, Flaxseed; Phar- 
macopeial definition: The ripe seed of Linum Usitatissimum; 
Natural order or family: Linaceae; Habitat: Europe; Medical 
properties: Demulcent; Active constituents: Oil and Mucilage. 

Oleum Lini is Linseed Oil and a fixed oil expressed without 


140 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


heat from the Flaxseed. It acts as a laxative but used mostly in 
medicine externally. It enters into Lime Liniment and Solution 
of Cresol. It is commonly called raw Linseed.Oil. 

Boiled Linseed Oil contains Lead Acetate and Lead Oxide and 
is poison. 

Official name: Sabal; Common name: Saw Palmetto Berries; 
Pharmacopeial definition: The partially dried, ripe fruit of Sere- 
noa Serrulata; Natural order or family: Pabnae; Habitat: U. S.; 
Medical properties: Diuretic; Active constituent: Oil; Dose: 15 
grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: Fluid Extract. 

Saw Palmetto grows in Florida to a height of 40 to 50 feet. 
It belongs to the palm family. It is a sedative and nutritive tonic. 
It has specific action on the prostate gland. It is good in the late 
stages of gonorrhea, prostatic enlargement and irritable bladder. 

Official name: Althaea; Common name: Marshmallow Root; 
Pharmacopeial definition: The root of Altheae Officinalis; Nat¬ 
ural order or family: Malvaceae; Habitat: Europe; Medical prop¬ 
erties: Demulcent; Active constituents: Starch, Asparagin. 

Althaea is used as an absorbent powder in making pill masses, 
and enters into Pill Phosphorous, Mass of Mercury, and Pill Car¬ 
bonate of Iron. 

Official name: Gossypium Purificatum; Common name: Purified 
Cotton, Absorbent Cotton; Pharmacopeial definition: The hairs 
of the seed Gossypium Herbaceum; Natural order or family: 
Malvaceae. 

Oleum Gossypii Seminis, Cotton Seed Oil. It is a fixed oil ex¬ 
pressed from the seed of cultivated varieties of Gossypium Her¬ 
baceum. 

Official name: Digitalis; Common name: Foxglove; Pharmaco¬ 
peial definition: The leaves of Digitalis Purpurea; Natural order 
or family: Scrophulariaceae; Habitat: Europe: Medical proper¬ 
ties; Stimulant, Diuretic; Active constituents: Digitalin, Digi- 
toxin, Digitonin; Dose: 1 gr.; U. S. P. Preparations: F. E., Tr., 
Inf. 

The U. S. P. states that Digitalis must be assayed biologically, 
that is, the minim lethal dose should not be greater than one-tenth 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


141 


of a minim, of the tincture or the equivalent of 7/1000000 of grain 
of ouabain (wah-bah-in) for each 15 grains of body weight of 
frog. 

Ouabain is a glucocide from an African arrow poison. It is a 
heart poison. 

The value of Digitalis leaves is based on the amount of Digi- 
toxin that the leaves contain. 

Digitalin and Digitoxin are the cardiac principles and are solu¬ 
ble in alcohol. 

Digitonin represents the diuretic principle and is soluble in 
water. 

French Digitalin , not U. S. P., consists largely of Digitoxin. 
Dise, 1/200 gr. 

German Digitalin, not U. S. P., consists of a mixture of Digi¬ 
talin and Digitonin. Dose, 1/60 gr. 

The active constituents of Digitalis are glucocides. 

Digitalis is a cumulative poison, that is, one which increases 
suddenly in its action after slow additions of it. 

Leptandra belongs to the above family, but is not U. S. P. The 
common name is Culver’s Root or Culver’s Physic. 

The family Orchidaceae contains Cypripedium , or Lady’s Slip¬ 
per, and Vanilla. Both are in the N. F. 

The Vanilla fruit known as Vanilla Beans are collected before 
they are ripe and wrapped in woolen blankets and exposed to the 
noonday sun for several days or until they assume a dark brown¬ 
ish color, at this point Vanillin is developed. 

Vanillin in U. S. P. is the Methyl-proto-catechuic-aldehyde, 
naturally existing in the Vanilla fruit. It is also prepared syn¬ 
thetically by the oxidation of Eugenol, which is the active constit¬ 
uent of Oil of Cloves. The dose of Vanillin is 1 gr. Used mostly 
for making the artificial Tincture of Vanilla, but is claimed as a 
stimulant. 

How much Bichloride in one pint of solution 1 to 1500? 455 

(number of grains in ounce of water) multiplied by 16 (number 
of ounces in pint) equals 7,280 (number grains in pint of water), 
so they want one grain of Bichloride to every 1,500 grains of 


142 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


water, so 7,280 divided by 1,500 equals 4.8, which is the number 
of grains of Bichloride to be used. 

Suppose you wanted to make four ounces of a solution of 
Bichloride so that when one teaspoonful is added to a pint of 
water it will make a solution 1 to 1,500, how much Bichloride 
would you use? It takes 4.8 grains of Bichloride to make one 
pint 1 to 1,500, and four ounces is equal to 32 teaspoonfuls, so 
32 multiplied by 4.8 is equal to 153 grains to be put in the four 
ounce bottle. 

Official name: Stillingia; Common name: Queen’s Root; Phar- 
macopeial definition: Roots of Stillingia Sylvatica; Natural order 
or family: Euphorbiaceae; Habitat: U. S.; Medical properties: 
Alterative; Active constituent: Resin; Dose: 30 grains; U. S. P. 
Preparations: F. E. 

Official name: Oleum. Ricini; Common name: Castor Oil; Phar- 
macopeial definition: A fixed oil from Ricinus Communis; Natural 
order or family: Euphorbiaceae; Habitat: Europe; Medical prop¬ 
erties: Cathartic; Active constituent: Ricin; Dose: x / 2 oz. 

Official name Oleum Tiglii ; Common name: Croton Oil; Phar- 
macopeial definition: A fixed oil from seed of Croton Tiglium; 
Natural order or family: Euphorbiaceae; Habitat: Europe; Med¬ 
ical properties: Drastic cathartic; Active constituents: Croton, 
resin; Dose: 1 minim. 

Elastica is India rubber. It is the prepared milk juice of sev¬ 
eral species of Heva. It is used in making plasters. When rubber 
is pure it will float on water. It is usually adulterated with 
lead and zinc. 

Vulcanized Rubber is heating rubber with sulphur. 

Castor Oil and Croton Oil are two fixed oils that are soluble in 
alcohol. 

Official name: Mentha Piperita; Common name: Peppermint; 
Pharmacopeial definition: Leaves and tops of Mentha Piperita; 
Natural order or family: Labiatae; Habitat: U. S.; Medical prop¬ 
erties: Carminative; Active constituent: Volatile Oil; Dose: 60 
Spt. 

Official name: Mentha Viridis; Common name: Spearmint; 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


143 


Pharmacopeial definition: Leaves and tops of Mentha Viridis; 
Natural order or family: Labiatae; Habitat: U. S.; Medical prop¬ 
erties: Carminative; Active constituent: Volatile Oil; Dose: 60 
Spt. 

Hedeoma is Pennyroyal. 

Scutillaria is Scull Cap. 

Marrubiam is Horehound. 

Salvia is Sage. 

This order also contains Thyme, Rosemary, Lavender, and 
Catnip, but none is U. S. P., except Spearmint and Peppermint. 

Official name: Jalapa; Common name: Jalap; Pharmacopeial 
definition: The tuberous root of Exogonium Purga , yielding not 
less than 7% resin; Natural order or family: Convolvulaceae; 
Habitat: Mexico; Medical properties: Hydrogue cathartic; Ac¬ 
tive constituents: Jalapin, Convolvulin; Dose: 15 grs.; U. S. P. 
Preparations: Powd. Resin. 

.Official name: Scamoniae Radix; Common name: Scammony 
Root; Pharmacopeial definition: Root of Convolvulus Scammony , 
yielding 8% resins; Natural order or family: Convolvulaceae; 
Habitat: Asia; Medical properties: Hydrogue cathartic; Active 
constituent: Resin; Dose: 4 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: Resin. 

Official name: Uva Ursi; Common name: Bearberry; Pharma¬ 
copeial definition: Leaves of Orctostaphylos Uva Ursi; Natural 
order or family: Ericaceae; Habitat: U. S.; Medical properties: 
Diuretic; Active constituent: Arbutin; Dose: 30 grs.; U. S. P. 
Preparations: F. E. 

Chimaphila is Pipsissewa, or Princess Pine, and belongs to the 
above order. It is very similar to Uva Ursi, both containing 
Arbutin, a bitter glucoside. 

Diospyros is Latin for Persimmon; was used as astringent. 

Jalap is better when worm eaten, as the worms eat out the 
starch and leave the resin. 

Convolvulin is the most active of the two principles and is 
soluble in Ether. 

Resin of Jalap enters into both C. C. Pills. 

Official name: Hydrastis ; Common name: Golden Seal; Phar- 


144 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


macopeial definition: Rhizome and roots of Hydrastis Canadensis, 
yielding 2.5% of ether-soluble alkaloids; Natural order or family: 
Ranunculaceae; Habitat: N. A.; Medical properties: Alterative; 
Active constituents: Hydrastine, Berberine; Dose: 30 grs.; U. S. 
P. Preparations: Ext., F. E., Glycerite, Tr. 

Official name: Cimicifuga; Common name: Macrotys , Black 
Snakeroot, Black Cohosh; Pharmacopeial definition: Rhizome and 
roots of Cimicifuga Racemosa; Natural order or family: Ranun- 
culaceae; Habitat: N. A.; Medical properties: Anti-spasmodic; 
Active constituents: Cimicifugin, Macrotin; Dose: 15 grs.; U. S. 
P. Preparations: F. E., Ext. 

Official name: Staphisagria; Common name: Stavesacre; Phar¬ 
macopeial definition: The ripe seed of Delphinium Staphisagria; 
Natural order or family: Renunculaceae; Habitat: Europe; Med¬ 
ical properties: Stimulant, externally for vermin; Active con¬ 
stituent: Delphine; Dose: 1 gr.; U. S. P. Preparations: F. E. 

Official name: Aconitum; Common name: Aconite, Monk’s 
Hood; Pharmacopeial definition: The tuberous root of Aconitum 
Napellus. yielding .5% ether-soluble alkaloids; Natural order or 
family: Ranunculaceae; Habitat: Europe; Medical properties: 
Sedative; Active constituent: Aconitine; Dose: y 2 gr.; U. S. P. 
Preparations: Tr., Ext. and F. E. 

Notes.— Aconitine is an official alkaloid obtained from Aconite. 
The dose is 1/400 of a grain. 

Aconite is very poisonous and should be stated with care. The 
dose is. y 2 gr. The dose of the tincture is 5 minims, the dose of 
the fluid extract is y> minim. When Aconite is tasted it produces 
a tingling or numbness of the tongue. 

The Antidote for Aconite is stimulants, such as Digitalis and 
Strychnine, stomach pump. 

Externally Aconite is used as an anodyne. It is valuable in 
liniments for neuralgia. It is valuable with Iodine in toothache, 
by painting the gums. Aconite should be applied with caution to 
abraised surfaces, as it is readily absorbed. Aconite produces 
better results when given in small doses frequently than in larger 
doses and less frequent. 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS| 145 

Fleming’s Tincture Aconite, not U. S. P., is 70% strength. 
Fleming delivered an essay on Aconite in 1844, for which he re¬ 
ceived a medal from the University of Edinburg. 

Hydrastine is a white crystalline alkaloid soluble in alcohol and 
ether, insoluble in water. 

Berberine is a yellow crystalline alkaloid, soluble in hot water, 
insoluble in ether. 

Hydrastis is a valuable drug in ulcerated stomach. As an anti¬ 
septic and alterative application to ulcers and sores, especially 
those caused by syphilis. In gonorrhea it is valuable in the 
second stages, injected in solution. 

The alkaloid Delphinine is used in neuralgia, palpitation and 
rheumatism, in doses of 1/60 gr. Also in 1% ointment for pedicu¬ 
losis (body lice). Larkspur is more common for this -in liquid 
form. It is Dephinium Consolida. 

Official name: Belladonnae Folia; Common name: Belladonna 
Leaves, Deadly Nightshade; Pharmacopeial definition: The leaves 
of Atropa Belladonna, yielding .3% total alkaloids; Natural order 
or family: Solanaceae; Habitat: Europe; Medical properties: 
Sedative; Active constituents: Atropine, Belladonnine, Hyoscya- 
mine; Dose: 1 gr.; U. S. P. Preparations: Ext., Tr., Oint. 

Official name: Belladonnae Radix; Common name: Belladonna 
Root; Pharmacopeial definition: The roots of Atropa Belladonna, 
yielding .45% total alkaloids; Natural order or family: Sola- 
neceae; Habitat: Europe; Medical properties: Sedative; Active 
constituents: Atropine, Belladonnine, Hyoscyamine; Dose: % gr.; 
U. S. P. Preparations: F. E. and Liniment. 

Official name: Stramonium; Common name: Jimson Weed, 
Jamestown Weed; Pharmacopeial definition: The leaves of 
Datura Stramonium, yielding .25% total alkaloids; Natural order 
or family: Solanaceae; Habitat: Europe; Medical properties: 
Narcotic; Active constituents: Daturine, Atropine, Hyoscya¬ 
mine, Hyoscine; Dose: 1 gr.; U. S. P. Preparations: Ext., Tr., 
Ointment. 

Official name: Hyoscyamus; Common name: Henbane; Phar¬ 
macopeial definition: Leaves and flowering tops of Hyoscyamus 


146 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


Niger, yielding not less than 0.065% of the alkaloids of Hyoscya- 
mus; Natural order or family: Solanaceae; Habitat: Europe; 
Medical properties: Anodyne, Narcotic; Active constituents: 
Hyoscine. Hyoscyamine; Dose: 4 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: 
Ext., F. E., Tr. 

Official name: Capsicum; Common name: Cayenne Pepper, Red 
Pepper, African Chillies; Pharmacopeial definition: The ripe 
fruit of Capsicum Frutescens; Natural order or family: Sola- 
nacae; Habitat: Africa; Medical properties: Stimulant; Active 
constituents: Oil and Resin; Dose: 1 gr.; U. S. P. Preparations: 
Tr., Oleo-resin. 

Notes.—The above order is known as the Nightshade family 
and is one of the most important. It contains 1,750 species, 
among wjiich are the Eggplant, Tobacco, Tomato. 

Belladonna, meaning Beautiful Lady, is cultivated in the U. S. 
It is a bush growing from 2 to 4 feet in height with bill-like, pur¬ 
ple flowers, and berries black and about the size of a cherry. 

Belladonna relieves pain, stimulates the circulation, decreases 
secretion. It increases the rate but not the force of the heart. 
(Digitalis opposite.) 

Atropine and Atropine Sulphate are U. S. P. The dose of each 
is 1/120 grain. They are used to dilate the pupil of the eye and 
paralyze the accommodation of the eye. In small doses they in¬ 
crease the action of the heart and are a spinal stimulant. In large 
doses they paralyze the heart and spinal cord. 

In ocular diseases the strength of the solution should not be 
more than 4 grains to the ounce. It is frequently used in opthal- 
mic diseases. 

In opium poisoning it is given in small doses and repeated 
often. In cases of over-inhalation of Chloroform or Ether it has 
restored life where all others have failed. 

Symptoms of Atropine and Belladonna Poisoning: Dryness of 
mouth and thoat, redness of the face, quick and irregular pulse, 
vomiting and diarrhea. Full doses of Morphine is physiological 
antidote. 

Homatropine Hydrobromide is the Hydrobromide of Homatro- 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 147 

pine, an alkaloid obtained by the condensation of Tropine and 
Mandellic Acid. Dose 1/120 gr. It slows the heart. It is pre¬ 
ferred to Atropine as a mydriatic, as the effects last only one- 
fourth as long. 

Stramonium is a strong weed growing from 2 to 6 feet in 
height, with large flowers and pods and black seed. It is called 
Stink Weed. It grows wild in Russia and United States. It is 
also known as Thornapple. 

Daturine is a mixture of Atropine and Hyoscyamine. 

Stramonium acts similar to Belladonna in every respect, except 
it is more powerful and causes cardiac irregularity and delirium. 
The antidote is the same as Belladonna. 

Hyoscyamus is a bushy annual or biennial plant, 1 to 4 feet in 
height, with yellow flowers. 

Hyoschamus is a feeble narcotic especially adapted for chil¬ 
dren. It is especially good in insomnia and delusions. It is used 
in combination with purgatives and is best prescribed in 4-grain 
doses in powder form. The tincture is an effective remedy in irri¬ 
tated bladder from any cause. 

Scopola belongs to the family Solanaceae, but it is not U. S. P. 
Scopolamine is its alkaloid and Scopolamine Hydrobromide is 
official. It is identical with Hyoscine from Hyoscyamus. 

Scopolamine is a cerebral (brain) and spinal sedative and a 
powerful hypnotic and affects the heart but feebly; very likely this 
is the alkaloid which prevents Hyoscyamus from causing the 
delirious effects of Belladonna. It is frequently used as hypnotic 
for alcoholics and extreme nervousness. 

Scopolamine-Morphine are used to lessen the pain in child¬ 
birth and is what is known as the famous '‘twilight sleep/’ being 
injected in Scopolamine 1/150 and Morphine 1/6 when the pains 
are about five minutes apart and the patient sleeps between pains. 

Stramonium is anti-spasmodic and is used in Asthma by burn¬ 
ing and inhaling the smoke. The following prescription is an 
illustration: 


148 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


f7J2T Pulv. Beiladonnae 

Pulv. Stramonium aa ozl 
' Pot. Nitrate qs. 

Sig.: Burn and inhale. 


The Saltpetre is dissolved in a 
small quantity of water, mixed 
with the powders and allowed to 
dry. 


Paprika is American Red Pepper grown in Texas. 

Official name: Ulmus; Common name: Elm, Slippery Elm; 
Pharmacopeial definition: The bark of Ulumus Fulva deprived 
of its corky layer; Natural order or family: Ulmaceae; Habitat: 
U. S.; Medical properties: Demulcent; Active constituent: Mu¬ 
cilage. 

Official name: Humulus; Common name: Hops; Pharmacopeial 
defintion: Strobiles of Humulus Lupulus, bearing their glandular 
trichomes; Natural order or family: Moraceae; Habitat: Europe; 
Medical properties: Tonic; Active constituent: Lupulin; Dose: 
30 grains. 

Official name: Cannabis; Common name: Guaza, Ganjah, Can¬ 
nabis Indica; Pharmacopeial definition: The flowering tops of 
the pistillate plants of Cannabis Sativa, assayed biologically; 
Natural order or family: Moraceae; Habitat: India; Medical 
properties: Narcotic, Anodyne; Active constituents: Cannabin, 
Volatile Oil; Dose: 1 gr.; U. S. P. Preparations: Ext., F. E., 
Tinct. 

Notes'.— Lupulin is the trichomes of hops; it was U. S. P. in 8th. 

Strobiles are a complete cluster of scales which surround the 
flower. 

Cannabis in a way has died out as a hypnotic and anodyne, 
however, it is useful in many cases, such as the burning and pain¬ 
ful affections of the bladder, and allays cordee. Equal parts of 
the Tr. and F. E. Ergot with 10 grains Sodium Bromide to the 
teaspoonful is very effctive for prolonged menstration (or flood¬ 
ing) • 

An aqueous solution of this drug is used by the natives to pro¬ 
duce intoxication. 

Gunjah is the dried leaf which is sold by the natives for smok¬ 
ing purposes. 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


149 


Ca/nnabin is resin and is claimed by some to be less valuable 
than the volatile oil. 

Official name: Quercus ; Common name: White Oak; Pharma- 
copeial definition: The bark of Quercus Alba; Natural order or 
family: Cupuliferae; Habitat: N. A.; Medical properties: Astrin¬ 
gent; Active constituent: Tannin. It is not U. S. P. 

Official name: Galla; Common name: Nutgall; Pharmacopeial 
definition: Excrescences on the young twigs of Quercus Infectoria 
caused by the puncture and deposited ova of Cynips Tinctoria ; 
Natural order or family: Fagaceae; Habitat: Europe; Medical 
properties: Astringent; Active constituent: Tannin; Dose: 8grs.; 
U. S. P. Preparations: Ointment. 

Acidum Tannicum, Tannic Acid, called Tannin, is an organic 
acid prepared from nutgalls by exposing the galls for three days in 
a damp atmosphere, then macerate with Ether, pressing and dry¬ 
ing the liquid portion. It is a yellowish white to a brown amor¬ 
phous powder, gradually turning darker on exposure. It is very 
soluble in water and alcohol and soluble in 1 to 1 Glycerin by aid 
of gentle heat. It is insoluble in Ether, Chloroform or Benzin. 
The glycerite troches and ointment are U. S. P. 

Acidum Galicum, Gallic Acid. It is an organic acid prepared 
from Tannic Acid. It is a white or pale fawn-colored powder. 
The dose is 15 grs. It differs from Tannic Acid by not precipi¬ 
tating alkaloids from their solutions and not coagulating Albu¬ 
men and Gelatin. 

Pyrogallol, called Pyrogallic Acid. It is a Trihydroxybenzene 
C6H3(OH)3, obtained by the sublimation of Gallic Acid. It is 
used as an antiseptic and disinfectant; in 1 to 3% solutions. Can 
be used internally for hemorrhages in 2-grain doses. 

Official name: Viburnum Prunifolium; Common name: Black 
Haw; Pharmacopeial definition: The bark of Viburnum Pruni¬ 
folium.; Natural order or family: Caprifoliaceae; Habitat: Eu¬ 
rope; Medical properties: Nervine; Active constituents: Verbur- 
nin, Valeric Acid; Dose: 30 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: Ext., 
F. E. 

Official name: Viburnum Opulus ; Common name: Cramp Bark; 


150 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


Pharmacopeial definition: The bark of Viburnum Opulus; Nat¬ 
ural order or family: Caprifoliaceae; Habitat: Europe; Medical 
properties: Nervine; Active constituent: Valeric Acid; not 
U. S. P. 

Black Haw is considered nervine, anti-spasmodic, astringent, 
diuretic and tonic properties, and especially useful in preventing 
abortion in the nervous diseases of pregnancy. 

Cramp Bark is said to prevent uterine and abdominal pains, 
but on account of its infrequent use was dismissed from the 
U. S. P. 

A few Latin names of unofficial drugs: 

Casta’nea is Chestnut leaves, used for whooping cough in form 
of infusion. 

Panax is the American Ginseng, used by the Eclectics for 
dyspepsia. 

Cornus Florida is Dogwood, used as an astringent. 

Aytpoules are sealed glass containers holding from 1 to 5 mils, 
of a sterile solution to be injected intraveinously. 

A medicine dropper should have an external diameter of 3 milli¬ 
meters and discharge distilled water so that twenty (20) drops 
would weigh one gramme. (One millimeter is 1/25 of inch.) 

Official name: Prunus Virginiana; Common name: Wild 
Cherry, Wild Black Cherry; Pharmacopeial definition: The bark 
of Prunus Virginiana; Natural order or family: Rosaceae; Habi¬ 
tat: U. S.; Medical properties: Sedative; Active constituents: 
HCN, Volatile Oil; Dose: 30 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: Syrup. 

Official name: Rosa Gallica; Common name: Red Rose; Phar¬ 
macopeial definition: The dried petals of Rosa Gallica, collected 
just before the expansion of the flower; Natural order or family: 
Rosaceae; Habitat: Europe; Medical properties: Astringent; 
Active constituent: Quercitrin; U. S. P. Preparations: F. E. 

Official name: Amygdala Dulcis; Common name: Sweet Al¬ 
mond; Pharmacopeial definition: The ripe seed of Prunus Amyg- 
dalus Dulcis; Natural order or family : Rosaceae; Habitat: Asia; 
Medical properties: Demulcent: Artive constituent: Fixed Oil; 
U. S. P. Preparations: Emulsion. 


151 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 

Official name: Oleum Amygdalae Expressum; Common name: 
Oil of Sweet Almond; Pharmacopeial definition: A fixed oil ex¬ 
pressed from the kernels of Primus Amygdalus ; Natural order 
or family: Rosaceae; Habitat: Asia; Medical properties: Laxa¬ 
tive; Active constituent: Olein; Dose: 1 oz.; U. S. P. Prepara¬ 
tion : Ointment of Cold Cream. 

Notes.—Sweet Almond are much larger than the bitter. 

Wild Cherry is a small tree growing in Canada and the United 
States. The bark contains an amydalin and emulsin which react 
on each other and form the Hydrocyanic Acid and a volatile oil 
resembling that of Bitter Almond. Wild Cherry is an aromatic 
bitter tonic, but it is used mostly in cough mixtures. 

Some unofficial drugs of this family: 

Rubus Villosus is Blackberry. 

Rubus Idaeus is Raspberry. 

Cydonium, Quince Seed, valuable for their mucilage. 

Quillaja, Soap Bark, the bark of Quillaja Saponaria. 

Official name: Cubeba ; Common name: Cubeb, Cubebs; Phar¬ 
macopeial definition: The dried full-grown unripe fruit of Piper 
Cubeba; Natural order or family: Piperaceae; Habitat: W. I.; 
Medical properties: Diuretic; Active constituents: Volatile Oil, 
Cubebic Acid; Dose: 10 grs.: U. S. P. Preparation: Troche Oleo- 
resin. 

Official name: Piper; Common name: Pepper, Black Pepper; 
Pharmacopeial definition: The dried unripe fruit of Piper Ni¬ 
grum; Natural order or family: Piperaceae; Habitat: W. I.; 
Medical properties: Stimulant; Active constituents: Oil and 
Resin; Dose: 8 grs,; U. S. P. Preparation: Oleoresin. 

Notes.—Cubebs are picked while green and become wrinkled 
on drying. It is a climbing shrub and the fruit grows in clusters, 
culitvated in Java. Their value is due to the Cubebic Acid, which 
is the diuretic principle. It stimulates the genito-urinary pass¬ 
age, increasing the sweat and urine. It is very useful in affec¬ 
tions of the bladder and uretha. It may be smoked in cigarettes 
for temporary relief in acute nasal catarrh. The troches are used 


152 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


by public speakers and singers for hoarseness and tonic effect on 
the organs of the throat. 

Pepper acts as an irritant locally and as a warm carminative 
and stimulant on both the heart and kidneys. 

Matico, known as “Soldier’s Friend,” is an astringent drug 
belonging to the above order, but not U. S. P. 

Official name: Manna; Common name: Manna; Pharmacopeial 
definition: Dried saccharine exudation of Fraxinus Omus; Nat¬ 
ural order or family: Oleaceae; Habitat: Europe; Medical prop¬ 
erties: Laxative; Active constituent: Mannite; Dose: oz.; 

U. S. P. Preparations: Inf. Senna Co. 

Official name: Oleum , Olivae; Common name: Olive Oil; Phar¬ 
macopeial definition: A fixed oil obtained from the ripe fruit 
Olea Europaea; Natural order or family: Oleaceae; Habitat: 
Europe; Medical properties: Laxative; Active constituents: 
Olein and Palmatin; Dose: 1 oz.; U. S. P. Preparation: Lead 
Plaster. 

Notes.— Fraxinus Ornus is the flowering ash, a tree of South¬ 
ern Europe. 

Manna is a mild laxative and is usually given with Senna, 
Rhubarb, etc., to disguise the taste. Its active constituent, Man¬ 
nite, is chemically a Hexahydric Alcohol, also called Manitol. A 
substance resembling Manna is obtained from several plants as 
well as the bay tree, but this does not contain Mannite. 

Official name: Myrrha; Common name: Myrrh, Gum Myrrh; 
Pharmacopeial definition: A gum-resin obtained from Commi¬ 
phora Myrrha; Natural order or family: Burseraceae; Habitat: 
Arabia; Medical properties: Antiseptic; Active constituent: 
Myrrhin; Dose: 8 gr. pill; U. S. P. Preparations: Tinct. Rhei Co. 

Notes.—Myrrh is an antiseptic and especially good for old in¬ 
flamed surfaces in combination with Comp. Tr. Benzoin. Mixed 
with water it is a good gargle for sore throat. It forms an emul¬ 
sion with water if mixed properly. The variety is Turkey. 

Official name: Quassia ; Common name: Bitter Wood; Pharma¬ 
copeial definition: The wood or Picrasma Excelsa; Natural order 
or family: Simarubaceae; Habitat: W. I.; Medical properties: 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


153 


Tonic: Active constituent: Picrasmin; Dose: 8 grs.; U. S. P. 
Preparation: Tincture. 

Notes.— Quassia is a bitter tonic employed in dyspepsia and a 
strong infusion as an enema against thread worms. It is poison¬ 
ous to flies, fish, rabbits and dogs. 

The excelsa is known as Jamaica Quassia, and the amara Suri¬ 
nam Quassia. 

It comes to the market in cups or chips, the latter mostly, from 
a Dutch colony of S. A. 

Euonymus is Wahoo, N. F. It is classed with Rheubarb, Jalap, 
Aloes, etc. 

Official name: Mezereum; Common name: Mezereon ; Pharma- 
copeial definition: The bark of Daphne Mezereum and other spe¬ 
cies of Daphne; Natural order or family: Thymeleaceae; Habi¬ 
tat: Europe; Medical properties: Sialagogue; Active constituent: 
Daphnin; U. S. P. Preparations: F. E., Sarsaparilla Co. 

Notes.—The above is a shrub growing from 2 to 4 feet high 
with rose red or purple flowers. It grows in the mountainous 
districts of Europe and Asia and cultivated as a flower in England 
and United States. The root bark is the strongest but the stem 
bark is more common. The fresh bark is a powerful irritant and 
will produce blisters. It is used mostly in combination as an 
alterative in syphilis. 

Official name: Eriodictyon; Common name: Yerba Santa , Con¬ 
sumption Weed, Mountain Balm; Pharmacopeial definition: The 
leaves of Eriodictyon Californicum; Natural order or family: 
Hydrophyllaceae; Habitat: U. S.; Medical properties: Expct.; 
Active constituent: Resin; Dose: 15 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: 
F. E. 

Notes.— Eriodictyon is used to disguise the taste of bitter 
drugs, as Quinine. The fluid extract in water as a mouth wash 
is the better way, as it paralyzes the sense of taste. 

Calamus is Sweet Flag, not U. S. P.; bitter tonic. 

Official name: Styrax; Common name: Storax; Pharmacopeial 
definition: A balsam from the wood of Liquidamber Orientalis; 
Natural order or family: Hamamelidaceae ; Habitat: Asia; Medi- 


154 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


cal properties: Expct.; Active constituent: Cinnamic Acid; Dose: 
15 grs.: U. S. P. Preparations: Tr., Benz. Co. 

Notes.— Styrax is obtained from a tree, Oriental Sweet Gum. 
It is a stimulant, expectorant, antiseptic and disinfectant. It is 
similar to Benzoin. 

Hamamelidaceae also contains Hamamelis Cortex and Hama- 
melis Folio, which is Witch Hazel. They are not U. S. P., but the 
water is. The F. E. is made from the leaves. 

Official name: Granatum; Common name: Pomegranate: Phar¬ 
macopeial definition: The bark of the stems and roots of Punica 
Granatum; Natural order or family: Punicaceae; Habitat: Eu¬ 
rope; Medical properties: Taenifuge; Active constituent: Pelle- 
tierine; Dose: 30 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: F. E. 

Pelletierine is a mixture of alkaloids, and the tannate is U. S. P. 
The dose is 4 grains. 

Official name: Xomthoxylum; Common name: Prickly Ash 
Bark; Pharmacopeial definition: The bark of Xanthoxylum 
A?nericanwm . (Northern), the bark of Clava-Herculis (South¬ 
ern); Natural order or family: Rutaceae; Habitat: U. S.; Medi¬ 
cal properties: Alterative: Active constituent: Oil; Dose: 30 grs.; 
U. S. P. Preparations: F. E. 

Official name: Buchu; Common name: Buchu; Pharmacopeial 
definition: The dried leaves of Baroma Betulina (short), the 
dried leaves of Barosma Serratifolia (long) ; Natural order or 
family: Rutaceae; Habitat: Africa; Medical properties: Diu¬ 
retic; Active constituent: Rutin: Dose: 30 grs.; U. S. P. Prepara¬ 
tions : F. E. 

Official name: Pi'ocarpus; Common name: Jaborandi; Pharma¬ 
copeial definition: Leaves of Pilicarpus Jaborandi; Natural order 
or family: Rutaceae; Habitat: S. A.; Medical properties: Dia¬ 
phoretic; Active constituent: Pilocarpine; Dose: 30 grs.; U. S. P. 
Preparations: F. E. 

Official name: Aurantii Amara Cortex; Common name: Bitter 
Orange Peel; Pharmacopeial definition: The dried rind of the 
fruit Aurantium Amara; Natural order or family: Rutaceae; 
Habitat: U. S.; Medical properties: Carminative; Active con- 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 155 

stituent: Hesperidin; Dose: 15 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: F. E., 
Tr., Tr. Gent. Co., Tr. Cine. Co. 

Official name: Aurantii Dalcis Cortex; Common name: Sweet 
Orange Peel; Pharmacopeial definition: The outer rind of the 
fresh, ripe fruit of Citrus Aurantium Sinensis; Natural order or 
family: Rutaceae; Habitat: U. S.; Medical properties: Carmina¬ 
tive; Active constituent: Volatile Oil; U. S. P. Preparations: 
Tincture. 

Notes.—We get three oils frim the orange tree. From the fruit 
we get the U. S. P. Volatile Oil of Orange. From the flower of 
both the bitter and sweet we get Neroli Oil, and in France, where 
these oils are produced, the first is known as Bigarade and the 
latter as Portugal. From the leaves and young shoots we get an 
oil known as Petit grain. The last two oils are used exclusively in 
perfumery. 

Official name: Aspidium; Common name: Male Fern, Filix- 
mas; Pharmacopeial definition: Rhizome and stipes of Dryapteris 
Filix-mas , collected in autumn; Natural order or family: Poly- 
podiaceae; Habitat: N. A.; Medical properties: Taenifuge; Active 
constituent: Filicic Acid; Dose: 60 grs.; U. S. PT Preparation: 
Oleoresin. 

Aspidium should not be used after it is two years old. Only the 
green portion should be used. 

Castor Oil should never follow Aspidium, as it increases ab¬ 
sorption. 

Official name: Ipecacuanha; Common name Ipecac; Pharma¬ 
copeial definition: The roots of Cephaelis Ipecacuanha, yielding 
1.75% alkaloids; Natural order or family: Rubiaceae; Habitat: 
Brazil; Medical properties: Emetic; Expectorant; Active con¬ 
stituents: Cephaeline, Emetine; Emetic Dose: 15 grs.; U. S. P. 
Preparations: F. E., Dover’s Powd. and Syr. from F. E. 

Official name: Gambir; Common name: Pale Catechu, Cutch, 
Terra Japonica; Pharmacopeial definition: A dried extract pre¬ 
pared from decoctions of the leaves and twigs of Ourouparia 
Gambir; Natural order or family: Rubiaceae; Habitat: E. I.; 


156 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


Medical properties: Astringent; Active constituent: Tannin; 
Dose: 15 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: Comp. Tr. 

Official name: Cinchona; Common name: Yellow Cinchona, 
Calisaya Bark, Yellow Peruvian Bark, Jesuits’ Bark; Pharmaco- 
peial definition: The dried bark of Cinchona Calisaya , yielding 
5% alkaloids; Natural order or family: Rubiaceae; Habitat: 
Brazil; Medical properties: Febrifuge; Active constituents: 
Quinine, Quinidine, Cinchonine, Cinchonidine, Kinovin, Kinic 
Acid: Dose: 15 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations F. E. and Tine. 

Official name: Cinchona Rubra; Common name: Red Cinchona; 
Pharmacopeial definition: The bark of Cinchona Surcirubra, 
yielding 5% alkaloids; Natural order or family: Rubiaceae; Hab¬ 
itat: Brazil; Medical properties: Febrifuge; Active constituents: 
Qinine, Qinidine, Chinchonine, Cinchonidine, Kinovin, Kinic Acid: 
Dose: 15 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: Comp. Tine. 

Notes.—We have two varieties of Ipecac: the Rio and Carta¬ 
gena. The roots are about the size of goose quills; color, gray, red 
and brown, according to age of plant. It is a small, shrubby 
plant growing in damp, shady woods of S. A. It has small white 
flowers. 

Ipecac is much used as an emetic and is a safe non-depressant 
one, yet in small doses it prevents vomiting and especially in 
pregnancy. In very large doses, preceded by Opium, Ipecac is a 
wonderful drug for severe cases of dysentery. 

Alcresta Ipecac is an absorption product of the alkaloids of 
Ipecac combined with Fuller’s Earth (hydrated aluminum sili¬ 
cate) . 

Cephaeline is the emetic principle of Ipecac, but it is slow in 
action. Dose, 1/12 grain. 

Cinchona was and is one of the most famous of all drugs. It 
was known probably to the Indians before the arrival of the 
Spaniards. 

Chinchona was named for Countess del Chinchon, wife of the 
Viceroy of Peru. The Indians of Peru called it “kina” from which 
“Quina,” or the word Quinine, was derived. 


157 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 

Cinchona was first imported into Europe in 1639 by Countess 
del Chinchon, for whom it was named. 

In 1682 one pound of the bark sold for 100 louis-d’or, or about 
$400.00. 

Cinchona contains about 20 alkaloids, but the most important 
is Quinine. It also contains Tannic Acid, Kinic and Kinovic 
Acids and one resinoid known as Kinovin. 

Official name: Glycyrrhiza; Common name: Licorice; Pharma - 
copeial definition: Rhizome of Glycyrrhiza Glabra Typica and 
Glycyrrhiza Glabra Glandulifera; Natural Order or family: 
Leguminosae; Habitat: Europe; Medical properties: Expector¬ 
ant; Active constituent: Glycyrrhizin. 

Official name: Santalum Rubrum; Common name: Red Saun¬ 
ders; Pharmacopeial definition: The heartwood of Ptercarpus 
Santalinus; Natural order or family: Leguminosae; Habitat: 
Europe: Medical properties: Coloring agent; Active constituent: 
Santalin. 

Official name: Senna; Common name: Senna; Pharmacopeial 
definition: Leaves of Cassia Acutifolia and leaves of Cassia An- 
gustifolia; Natural order or family: Leguminosae ; Habitat: 
Africa; Medical properties: Cathartic; Active constituent: Ca¬ 
thartic acid. 

Official name: Physostigma; Common name: Ordeal Bean, 
Calabar Bean; Pharmacopeial definition: The ripe seed of Phy¬ 
sostigma Venenosum, yielding 15% alkaloids; Natural order or 
family: Leguminosae; Habitat: Europe; Medical properties: 
Sedative; Active constituent: Physostigmine; Dose: V/ 2 gr. 

Official name: Acacia; Common name: Gum Arabic; Pharma¬ 
copeial definition: Gummy exudation from Acacia Senegal and 
other African species of Acacia; Natural order or family: L<egu- 
minosae; Habitat: Africa; Medical properties: Demulcent; Ac¬ 
tive constituent: Arabic Acid. 

Official name: Tragacantha; Common name: Gum Tragacanth; 
Pharmacopeial definition: Spontaneously dried gummy exudation 
from Astragalus Gummifer; Natural order or family: Legumino- 


158 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


sue; Habitat: Africa; Medical properties: Demulcent; Active 
constituent: Bassorin. 

Official name: Kino; Pharmacopeial definition: The spontane¬ 
ously dried juice of Pterecarpus Marsupium; Natural order or 
family: Leguminosae; Habitat: E. I.; Medical properties: As¬ 
tringent; Active constituent: Tannin; Dose: 8 grs. 

Official name: Copaiba; Common name: Balsam Copaiba; Phar¬ 
macopeial definition: An eleoresin derived from South American 
species of Cobaiba; Natural order or family: Leguminosae; 
Habitat: S. A.; Medical properties: Diuretic; Active constitu¬ 
ents: Oil and resin; Dose: 15 min. 

Official name: Balsamum Peruvianum; Common name: Balsam 
of Peru; Pharmacopeial definition: A balsam obtained from 
Toluifera Pereirae; Natural order or family: Leguminosae; 
Habitat: C. A.: Medical properties: Expectorant; Active con¬ 
stituent: Cinnamic Acid. 

Official name: Balsamum Tolutanum; Common name: Balsam 
of Tolu; Pharmacopeial definition: A balsam obtained from 
Toluifera Balsamum; Natural order or family: Leguminosae; 
Habitat: C. A.; Medical properties: Expectorant; Active con¬ 
stituent: Cinnamic Acid. 

Notes.—The following unofficial drugs belong to this family: 

Haematoxylon, or Logwood, which is an astringent. 

Scoparious, or Broom, and contains the alkaloid Sparteine, and 
the Sulphate is U. S. P. Sparteine is one of the liquid alkaloids. 

Licorice is derived from the Latin word Liquiritia, corrupted 
from Greek Glykyrrhiza, meaning sweet root. It is a perennial 
herb with long, pliant, sweet roots. 

Glycyrrhizin is a yellow transparent amorphous substance 
closely allied to sugar. 

There are two official varieties of Licorice and the Spanish is 
much larger than the Russian. 

The Pure Extract of Glycyrrhiza, the Fluid Extract, and the 
Compound Powder are the U. S. P. preparations. However, the 
elixir is made from the fluid extract and Brown Mixture contains 


159 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 

the extract. Licorice Extract is the commercial extract seen in 
glossy black rolls. It is not U. S. P. 

Senna was derived from the French word se’ne’ from sanaya, 
meaning to make easy to open. There are two varieties of Senna 
Cassia Acutifolia or Alexandrian, which is native to Central and 
Eastern Africa. Cassia Angustifolia is known as Indian or 
Tinnivelly Senna, and is the long leaf Senna. Senna is a shrubby 
plant growing about two feet in height with bright yellow flowers. 

The fluid extract and compound infusion of Senna are official. 

The best solvent for Senna is a mixture of one part alcohol and 
two parts water. 

Physostigma is the only poisonous drug of the family Legu- 
mmosae. It is the seed of a twining half shrubby plant native of 
Western Africa. The bean itself is about the size of the horse 
bean and kidney shaped. It is most soluble in alcohol and less in 
water. It is used in the form of an emulsion by the natives as 
an ordeal when persons are suspected of witchcraft. It is be¬ 
lieved that if the suspect is not guilty he will not vomit, but if he 
is he will; the consequence is the ones who are not guilty eat 
freely and do not vomit, and those who are guilty eat sparingly 
and do vomit; so you see large doses do not cause vomiting and 
small doses do. 

Physostigmine, which is the alkaloid of Physostigma, is known 
as Eserine, and the Salicylate is official. It is known as Eserine 
Salicylate and is used to contract the pupil of the eye. In large 
doses Physostigmine acts as a diaphoretic, stimulating the secre¬ 
tions of the saliva and tears, and is antagonistic to Strychnine. 

The internal dose of the Salicylate is 1/60 grain. 

Acacia comes from a tree indiginous to Africa; it occurs in 
tears in various size and is insoluble in alcohol but soluble in 
water. Acacia should not be prescribed with acids or strong alco¬ 
holic solutions or salts of the heavy metals or Syrup of Squills 
or Tincture Guaiac, as it produces a blue color with the latter. 

Tragacanth is obtained from a shrub which is known as leaf 
gum and grows chiefly in Asia Minor or Persia. It contains 


160 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


bassorin which is an insoluble gum and therefore the mucilage 
must be strained. 

Kino is obtained from a tall tree growing in India and Kino 
contains a large amount of Tannin, which causes a greenish pre¬ 
cipitate with persalts or iron. Tr. of Kino is made by special 
process and must be heated to boiling for one hour then add 
alcohol and strain through cheese cloth. The heating destroys 
the enzyme which causes the preparation to gealtinize. 

Peru is obtained from a tree. It is a black, thick liquid and 
with an odor of benzoin or vanilla. 

Balsam of Tolu is obtained from a tree of Venezuela and its 
properties are very similar to Peru. It is a solid. 

Official name: Aspidosperma ; Common name: Quebracho; 
Pharmacopeial definition: The bark of Aspidosperma Quebracho 
Blanco; Natural order or family: Apcynaceae; Habitat: Argen¬ 
tine; Medical properties: Sedative; Active constituent: Aspido- 
spermine, Quebrachine; Dose: 6 grs. 

Official name: Strophanthus; Pharmacopeial definition: The 
seeds of Strophanthus Kombe, assayed biologically; Natural order 
or family: Apocynaceae; Habitat: Africa; Medical properties: 
Stimulant; Active constituent: Strophthin. 

Notes.— Apocynaceae is the Dogbane Family and contains 
Apocynum, which is called Canadian Hemp, but is not U. S. P. f 
belongs to this family. 

Aspidosperma is the white quebracho, bianco meaning white. 
It is a tree and the dried bark is brownish-grey or reddish-brown 
chips. The alkaloids are valuable to stimulate the respiratory 
center. It is used for asthma, and in bronchitis. The fluid extract 
is official. 

Strophanthus is a climbing African plant and the word Kombe 
was derived from an arrow poison which the natives made from 
Strophanthus seed. It slows the action of the heart, increases 
its contractility and increases its arterial tension, though less 
than digitalis. Its action is more rapid, less protracted and less 
certain than digitalis and also less diuretic. It is a valuable 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 161 

cardiac stimulant and is used where for any reason" digitalis is 
not advisable. 

Strophanthin is a glucocide soluble in water or alcohol. Dose 
by the mouth 1/60 grain. Intravenous dose, 1/80 grain. 

The dose of Strophanthus is 1 grain and the tincture is official. 

Because of the stability of Ouabain, it is used as a standard for 
comparison in the biologic assay. 

Some unofficial drugs: Krameria-Rhatany, used as astringent. 
Chirata is India Tonic; it is the plant Swertia Chirata. 

Official name: Eucalytus; Common name Bluegum Tree; Phar- 
macopeial definition: Leaves of Eucalyptus Globulus; Natural 
order or family: Myrtaceae; Habitat: Australia; Medical prop¬ 
erties: Antiseptic; Active constituent: Volatile Oil; Dose: 30 grs; 
U. S. P. Preparations: Fluid Extracts. 

Official name: Caryophyllus; Common name: Cloves; Pharma- 
copeial definition: The flower-buds of Eugenia Aromatica; Nat¬ 
ural order or family: Myrtaceae; Habitat: E. I.; Medical proper¬ 
ties: Synergist; Active constituent: Volatile Oil; Dose: 4 grs. 

Notes.— Eucalyptus is a very large tree and grows abundantly 
in California making shade trees for the streets. The leaves owe 
their value to Oil of Eucalyptus, which is a Volatile Oil and con¬ 
tains Eucalyptol. It is a colorless liquid and the dose is 5 minims. 
Used in the place of Oil of Eucalyptus. The oil yields about 
70% of it. 

The Myrtle of this family, as the above, is the one that was 
sacred to Venus as the symbol of youth and beauty. 

The Clove tree is a beautiful evergreen tree cultivated in East 
and West Indies. Cloves enter into Tincture Lavender Co. and 
Tincture Rhubarb Aromatic. The active constituent of Oil of 
Cloves is a phenol called Eugenol. 

Oil of Cloves is locally an anestetic and antiseptic. Internally 
it increases circulation and temperature, aids digestion and re¬ 
lieves pain. 

A Synergist is a drug which aids the action of another or acts 
as a corrective. 

Pimenta is Allspice and belongs to this order but is not U. S. P. 


162 IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 

The Volatile' Oil obtained from it is official and it contains 65% 
Eugenol. 

The Bayberry tree, from which is obtained Oil of Bay and from 
which Spirit Myrciae (Bay Rum) is prepared. 

Official name: Senega ; Common name: Seneca Snakeroot; 
Pharmacopeial definition: The dried roots of Poly gala Senega; 
Natural order or family: Polygalaceae; Habitat: U. S.; Medical 
properties: Expectorant; Active constituent: Senegin; Dose: 15 
grains; U. S. P. Preparations: F. E. 

Notes.— Senega, is a perennial having small white flowers. Its 
stem is erect, simple and tufted and grows about one foot high, 
the roots are woody, branched and about y 2 inch in diameter. It 
is famous as an imaginery cure for snake bite. It is an expec¬ 
torant diuretic and diaphoretic. The fluid extract enters into 
Syrup of Squills Comp, and Syrup of Senega. 

Official name: Gentiana; Common name: Yellow Gentian; Phar¬ 
macopeial definition: The rhizome and roots of Gentiana ’hutea; 
Natural order or family: Gentianaceae; Medical properties: 
Tonic; Active constituent; Gentianin; Dose: 15 grs.; U. S. P. 
Preparations: Tr. Comp. Ext. and F. E. 

Notes. Gentian was named for an Illyrian king who was de¬ 
feated by the Romans about 160 B. C. He is said to have been 
the first to discover the properties of the plant. It is a small plant 
growing to 3 or 4 feet in height with ovate-oblong leaves, and 
yellow flowers. It is numerous in the meadows of the Alps at 
elevations of 3,000 to 6,000 feet. 

Gentian contains about 14% sugar and the infusion will 
undergo fermentation and is much used by the peasants. 

Gentian contains no Tannin but it turns iron preparations 
black, due to Gentisic Acid. 

Official name: Cinnamomum Saigonicum; Common name: 
Saigon Cinnamon; Pharmacopeial definition: The bark of an 
undetermined species of Cinnamomum; Natural order or family: 
Lauraceae; Habitat: Saigon: Medical properties: Carminative; 
Active constituent: Volatile Oil; Dose: 4 grs.; U. S. P. Urepara- 
tion: Tr. 


163 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 

Official name: Cinnamomum Zeylanicum; Common name* Cey¬ 
lon Cinnamon; Pharmacopeial definition: The bark of cultivated 
trees of Cinnamomum Zeylanicum; Natural order or family: 
Lauraceae; Habitat: Ceylon; Medical properties: Carminative; 
Active constituent: Volatile Oil; Dose: 4 grs. 

Official name: Camphor ; Common name: Camphor, Gum Cam¬ 
phor; Pharmacopeial definition: A key tone obtained from Cinna- 
momum Camphora; it is dextrarotary; Natural order or family: 
Lauraceae; Habitat: Japan; Medical properties: Stimulant; 
Dose: 3 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: Water Liniment and Spirit. 

Official name: Sassafras; Pharmacopeial definition: The bark 
of the root of Sassafras Verifolium; Natural' order or family 
Lauraceae; Habitat: N. A.; Medical properties: Carminative; 
Active constituent: Volatile Oil; Dose: 2H drs.; U. S. P Prep¬ 
arations: F. E. and Comp. Fluid Ext. 

Notes. Ceylon Cinnamon is a very light shade and thin. 

Saigon is a heavy, thick bark. 

Oleum Cassiae is Oil of Cinnamon and is obtained from an 
undetermined species. 

Cinnaldehydum is Cinamic Aldehyde, C9H80, is an aldehyde 
obtained from Oil of Cinnamon. Not U. S. P. 

Camphor is the product obtained by the distillation with steam 
of the chips of Cinnamomum Camphor a. It is prepared for hypo¬ 
dermic injection by dissolving in Olive Oil. 

Official name: Sinapis Alba; Common name: White Mustard 
Seed; Pharmacopeial definition: The seed of Sinapis Alba; Nat¬ 
ural order or family: Cruciferae; Habitat: Europe; Medical 
properties: Emetic; Active constituent: Volatile Oil; Dose: 150 
grains. 

Official name: Sinapis Nigra; Common name: Black Mustard 
Seed; Pharmacopeial definition: The seed of Sinapis Nigra; Nat¬ 
ural order or family: Cruciferae; Habitat: Europe; Medical 
properties: Rubifacient, Emetic; Active constituent: Volatile 
Oil; Dose: 120 grains. 

Notes.—Commercial Mustard is usually a mixture of both seeds 
colored with Turmeric. Black Mustard is distinguished from 


164 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


white as they yield upon distillation with steam allyl-iso-thio- 
cyanate, which is the active principle of oil of mustard. 

Black Mustard Seed contain a ferment and a glucoside which 
act on each other in the presence of water and form the volatile 
oil. White Mustard does not. 

Barrasica Japonica is turnip greens and belongs to this family. 

Official name: Sarsaparilla; Pharmacopeial definition: The 
roots of Smilax Officinalis; Natural order or family: Liliaceae; 
Habitat: C. A.; Medical properties: Alterative; Active constit¬ 
uent: Parillin; Dose: 30 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: F. E. and 
F. E. Co. P. 

Official name: Veratrum Viride; Common name: Green Hele- 
bore, American Helebore; Pharmacopeial definition: Rhizome and 
roots of Veratrum Viride; Natural order or family: Liliaceae; 
Habitat: U. S.; Medical properties: Sedative; Active constituent: 
Nervine; Dose: 1 gr.; U. S. P. Preparations: Tr. and F. E. 

Official name: Scilla; Common name: Squill; Pharmacopeial 
definition: The fleshy inner scale of the bulb of the white variety 
of Urginea Maritima, assayed biologically; Natural order or 
family: Liliaceae; Habitat: Europe; Medical properties: Expec¬ 
torant, Cardiac; Active constituents: Scillin, Scillipicrin, Scilli- 
toxin; Dose: V/ 2 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations Vin., F. E., Tr. 

Official name: Colchici Cormus; Common name: Colchicum 
Corm; Pharmacopeial definition: The Corm of Colchicum Au- 
tumnale, yielding .35% Colchicine; Natural order or family: 
Liliaceae; Habitat: Europe; Medical properties: Anti-rheumatic; 
Active constituent: Colchicine; Dose: 4 grs.; U. S. P. Prepara¬ 
tions: F. E. 

Official name: Colchici Semen ; Common name: Colchicum Seed; 
Pharmacopeial definition: The dried seed of Colchicum Autum- 
nale, yielding .45% Colchicine; Natural order or family: Lilia¬ 
ceae; Habitat: Europe; Medical properties: Anti-rheumatic: Ac¬ 
tive constituent: Colchicine; Dose: 3 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: 
Tr., F. E. 

Official name: Aloe; Common name: Aloes; Pharmacopeial defi¬ 
nition: The inspossated juice of the leaves of Aloe Perri, yield- 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 165 


ing Socotrine Aloes, or Aloe Vera, yielding Curacae Aloes, or Aloe 
Ferox, yielding Cape Aloes; Natural order or family: Ldliaceae; 
Habitat: Africa; Medical properties: Cathartic; Active constit¬ 
uent: Aloin; Dose: 4 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: Tr. and Pil. 

Notes. Convallaria is Lily of the Valley, belongs to this order. 
It is not U. S. P. Asparagus and Onion belong to this order, but 
not U. S. P. 


There are three kinds of Sarsaparilla: the Mexican, the Hon¬ 
duras, and the Jamaica, the latter two being the ones most com¬ 
mon in commerce. It is a woody vine with prickly stems. The 
American varieties are shrubs with heart-shaped leaves. 

Veratrum is known as itchweed, a common plant growing from 
Canada to Alabama in wet soil. It is an insecticide and acrid 
poison. Norwood’s Tr. of Veratrum is 50% strength and the 
U. S. P. Tr. is 10%. 

Colchicum is a weed-like plant with pale purple flowers, the 
seed are round, brown and a little larger than mustard seed. It 
is a powreful gastro-intestinal irritant and heart depressant. 

Squill is seen on the market in narrow horny pieces about two 
inches in length with a yellowish white color. The powder usually 
comes on the market in one-ounce bottles and must be kept tightly 
sealed as it is very hygroscopic. 

Scillin is the expectorant and emetic principles, and Scillipicrin 
and Scillitoxm the cardiac principles. 

Aloes grow chiefly in the Mediterranean region, Western Asia 
and South Africa. Fifty miles from Cape Town is a mountainous 
country completely covered with Aloe, and the hills on the west 
side of Socotra, which is a British Island of the Indian Ocean, is 
where Socotrine Aloes grow. The species grow from half foot to 
30 feet in height with very large, juicy leaves. The native negroes 
make sacks and cords and nets from the fibers of the leaves. 

Insipissated means drying. 

Aloe was known to the ancients as it was spoken of by Diosco- 
rides, a materia medica writer of the first or second century. 

Purified Aloes was made by melting Aloes by heat then adding 
alcohol and strain. 


166 IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 

Allium is Garlic; it is not U. S. P. but belongs to the Liliaceae 
family. Syrupus Alii is Syrup of Garlic. 

Official name: Taraxacum; Common name: Dandelion; Phar- 
macopeial definition: Rhizome of Taraxacum Officinale; Natural 
order or family: Compositae; Habitat: U. S.; Medical properties: 
Tonic; Active constituent: Taraxacin; Dose: 150 grs.; U. S. P. 
Preparations: Ext. and Fluid Extract. 

Official name: Pyrethrum; Common name: Pellitory Root; 
Pharmacopeial definition: The dried root of Anacyclus Pyreth¬ 
rum; Natural order or family: Compositae; Habitat: N. A.; 
Medical properties: Sialagogue; Active constituent: Pyretherine; 
Dose: 30 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: Tr. 

Official name: Arnica; Common name: Mountain Tobacco; 
Pharmacopeial definition: The flower-heads of Arnica Montana; 
Natural order or family: Compositae ; Habitat: Europe; Medical 
properties: Vulnerary; Active constituents: Arnicine, Trime- 
thylamine; U. S. P. Preparations: Tinct. 

Official name: Grindelia; Common name: Grindelia; Pharma¬ 
copeial definition: Leaves and flowering tops of Grindelia Cam- 
porum; Natural order or family: Compositae; Habitat: U. S.; 
Medical properties: Anti-spasmodic; Active constituent: Resin; 
Dose: 30 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: Fluid Ext.. 

Official name: Lactucarium; Common name: Lettuce Opium; 
Pharmacopeial definition: The dried milk juice of Lactuca Virosa; 
Natural order or family: Compositae; Habitat: Europe; Medical 
properties: Hypnotic, Sedative; Active constituent: Iactocin; 
Dose: 15 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: Tinct. and Syr. from Tr. 

Official name: Matricaria; Common name: German Chamomile; 
Pharmacopeial definition: The flower-heads of Matricaria Chamo- 
milla; Natural order or family: Compositae ; Habitat: Europe; 
Medical properties: Tonic; Active constituent: Vol. Oil; Dose: 
240 grs.; U. S. P. Preparations: None. 

Notes.—The family Compositae is that of angiosperm plants. 
The Artichoke, Chicory and Tansy belong to this family. 
Eupatorium is known as Bone Set and used in the form of a 


167 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


hot tea produces perspiration, and 
influenza, etc. 


is said to relieve rheumatism, 


iWocfc or Lappa, used as an alterative, is cultivated in Japan 
and used as a condiment in the form of soup 

Jrfa, iS , kn0Wn as Levant Worm Seed and contains Son- 
tonin. It gets its common name as Levant was used to designate 
the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea where this plant grows. 

Anthemis, which is eight times larger than German Chamomile 
is known as the Roman Chamomile. It is light in color. 

Calendula, or Marigold, is used as a vulnerary and especially 
diseases of the scalp. 


Echinacea, known as hedgehog, is used by the Eclectics as an 
an alterative. And last but not least, Absinthium, known as 
Wormwood and contains a volatile oil, which when mixed with Oil 
of Anise and other herbs and whiskey, forms the famous French 
drink known as Absinthe, are all unofficial drugs belonging to 
this famous family. 


Notes of the U. S. P. drugs of this family: 

Taraxacum received its name from its leaves as they resemble 
lion’s teeth. The roots are ground and used to adulterate coffee. 

Pyreth/mru.m flowers are used as insect powders and to kill 
flies by asphyxiation. 

Arnica grows to about two feet in height and the tincture is 
very good for indigestion. It is 20% strength. 

Grindelia was named for a Russian botanist. It grows in Cali¬ 
fornia, has yellow flowers and the fluid extract is considered good 
for poison ivy. 


Lactucarium is a very mild hypnotic. It is Lettuce but differs 
from the garden Lettuce in having prickly leaves and a black, 
smooth seed. 


AN ADDRESS DELIVERED BY DR. MAX MORRIS TO THE 
GEORGIA PHARMACEUTICAL ASSOCIATION 

American Pharmacy was recognized as being the most ad¬ 
vanced Pharmacy even before we had any pharmacy laws at all, 


168 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


and the members of the craft were competent and safe men then. 

Pharmacy is essentially a business, with a slight admixture of 
professionalism. Pharmacy at best is scarcely more than semi- 
professional. 

As a matter of fact there was never such a condition of phar¬ 
macy to make it necessary to invoke the passage of protective 
laws for the public against pharmacists. 

To a certain extent the passage of these laws was favored by 
some colleges in the hope that it would lead to increased numbers 
of students. 

There was a time when a young man with ambition could work 
in the day time and study at odd hours or even at night, and 
qualify himself for higher things than nature seemed to have in 
store for him at birth. Many of the most illustrious men in 
America in business, as well as in the professions, in the past as 
well as among those now living, were and are such self-made 
men, and nowadays we have an un-American habit imported 
along with a lot of other foreign curses “there ought to be a law” 
—whenever things do not come their way of wishing; and the 
law is invoked for every trifling discomfort until finally the law 
becomes the greatest of all discomforts and oppressors. Not only 
is this the case in the trades unions, but even pharmacists are 
falling into this vicious habit of thinking. There ough to be a 
law. All men ought to have equal opportunities before the law. 
The young man who works all the day perhaps because he must 
support or help to support invalid or aged parents, or a widowed 
mother with younger brothers and sisters, who cannot take the 
time or spare the money necessary to go to a college of pharmacy 
and spend two years, ought to have the right to spend his avail¬ 
able time in study, and when he comes before a State Board of 
Pharmacy he should not be discriminated against because he did 
not get his knowledge in the one particular way dictated by a 
law instigated by what is practically threatening to become the 
Trades Union of Pharmacy. 

Professor Oldberg said “It must not be forgotten that the sole 
warrant for any pharmacy law is the proper protection for the 


169 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 

public health. The welfare of the people must be considered first 
in any such law, and if that self-evident truth is ignored phar¬ 
macy legislation must be a fraud or a failure and will not stand. 
If the welfare of the people is really the object of the law, it ought 
to be immaterial to the State, the public, the law if you will, 
whether a man studies at home with or without a correspondence 
course, or whether he went to a college of pharmacy for two 
years, or whether he learned what he knows at night or by day, 
or whether he ever went to a college with more or less professors 
or whether he ever went to any school whatsoever, provided that 
only some how, some where and at some time he qualifies himself 
to pass the required examination to prove his fitness to be a 
druggist and thereby his safety as regards the public. Any de¬ 
mands by the law further than to examine him for his fitness 
must be a fraud, according to Professor Oldberg and to common 
sense. 

If practical experience is required, the State Boards of Phar¬ 
macy ought to inquire into this subject and not the colleges. This 
would not prevent Boards of Pharmacy from recognizing the 
diplomas of reputable Cloleges of Pharmacy in lieu of the theo¬ 
retical part of the examinations, but they should themselves test 
the practical qualifications of all applicants and ascertain the 
experience records, and they could still make proper rules in 
regard to what shall constitute a College of Pharmacy in good 
standing for the purpose of giving credit to graduates for their 
theoretical education. There should be a square deal all around 
and justice to the public, and I believe that this means that we 
should not bar a young man from entering pharmacy because 
he was too poor to attend a College of Pharmacy. 

Not very many years ago practically every State that had a 
pharmacy law exempted graduatse of colleges of pharmacy from 
examination by the Board of Pharmacy. But as the years went 
by, it was discovered that the college diploma was not a proper 
criterion of the fitness of the pupil to practice pharmacy, and the 
examination by the Board of Pharmacy is now obligatory in 
nearly all the States, and to cite a very recent law, that is, of 


170 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 


Alabama, the resuirements for the applicant who applies for 
registration is that he must show written evidence of four years 
of practical experience, or be a graduate of a reputable College 
of Pharmacy, and have two years of practical experience. 

The Board of Pharmacy examination should be in every case 
the final test of the qualification of the candidate for registra¬ 
tion. If the changing times demand that the qualifications of the 
candidate be higher, then let the board make the examination 
more severe. To decide upon what shall be the proper amount of 
knowledge which the candidate for registration must possess is 
well within the proper sphere of the board or would become a 
proper subject for legislation, but legislation providing that there 
must be only one way by which the student might acquire the 
necessary amount' of knowledge would be a monstrosity, a monu¬ 
mental absurdity. 

The primary objections to the legislation making the possession 
of a college diploma an indispensable condition to an examination 
before a Board of Pharmacy are as follows: 

First. Such a condition is a manifest injustice to the men who 
may possess the requisite qualifications for the practice of phar¬ 
macy and who have, therefore, an adherent right to appear before 
an examining board to prove such qualifications and secure regis¬ 
tration. To compel a qualified applicant to spend two years in a 
college of pharmacy would be an unnecessary hardship which no 
plea in behalf of any institution could justify or extenuate. 
Where or how a man obtains his knowledge, whether under the 
stress of a pinching poverty in an attic over some drug store, or 
in an atmosphere of wealth in some luxuriously appointed col¬ 
lege; whether under the tutorage of some master in pharmacy, 
or under that of the modest druggist in the country drug store, 
is not the concern of any college or any board, or even of the 
State; the question is, has he the qualifications? If so, he has a 
right to prove them and obtain the requisite license. If it be said 
that such qualifications can be acquired only through a college 
of pharmacy course, the contention would be equivalent to denun¬ 
ciation of the vast majority of the pharmacists in this State now 


IMPORTANT VEGETABLE DRUGS 171 

engaged in the practice of pharmacy as men unfit for their 
calling 1 . 

Second. To deny any man the right to appear before a board 
for examination until he can produce a college diploma, is to 
divest the boards and the State of the right to pass on the pre¬ 
liminary qualifications of a candidate for registration, and to 
lodge the power in private institutions. The parties in interest 
in all legislation are the people, and the people’s organized repre¬ 
sentatives, the State, and from the State, therefore, properly 
flows supreme authority. As the agent of the State, the pharmacy 
board is properly vested with the jurisdiction over things phar¬ 
maceutically, with powers which cannot with justice be delegated 
to any private institution. 

For a State to declare that a board shall not examine into the 
qualifications of men for the practice of pharmacy until those 
qualifications have first been passed upon by some college or uni¬ 
versity would be to tie the hands of the board and degrade it to 
the rank of an inferior. If the boards, through their examina¬ 
tions or otherwise, are unable to pass on the qualifications of 
applicants for registration, then let them go out of the examining 
business entirely, and let the pharmacy laws be abolished, for in 
such case the great mass of legislation relating to pharmacy 
would be mere pretense and hollow presumption. 

The diploma condition is an insult to the intelligence of any 
board confronted with the requirements. Let the board remain 
supreme. Give the son of a poor man an equal chance in the race 
of life with the son of the rich or the well-to-do. Let the true 
merit prevail and not a mere certificate of alleged education. 


172 TOXICOLOGY 

A poison is a substance capable of producing effects which are dangerous 
to life. 

Cumulative poison is one that increases suddenly in its action after slow 
addition. Ex., Digitalis. 

A chronic person is produced by taking small doses from time to time. Ex., 
Lead. 

An irritant poison is one that causes irritation of the stomach. S. Flies. 

Deliriant poison is one which acts directly on the brain. Ex., Cocaine. 

A local poison is one that acts directly upon the part of the body the poison 
comes in contact. Ex., Caustic effects of mineral acids on the stomach. 

A systemic poison is one which acts on the circulation. 

A true poison is one which when absorbed by the system uniformly causes 
disease or death. Ex., Strychnine, Atropine. Matters not how well diluted. 

A corrosive poison is a highly irritant and causes local destruction of tissue. 

A neurotic poison is one which acts chiefly upon the nervous system. 
Although well diluted with water, it continues to be poisonous. In a sense it 
is a true poison. 

Tetanies are agents which act directly upon the spinal cord, producing such 
spasmodic and continual contraction of muscles as results in stiffening or 
immobility of the parts to which they are attached. These spasms last from 
one to five minutes, followed by complete relaxation at intervals. Example, 
Nuxvomica. 

Example of inorganic volatile non-metallic poisons: Bromine, Chlorine, 
Iodine, Phosphorous. 

Example of metallic poisons : Antimony and its salts, Arsenic, Lead, Mer¬ 
cury. 

Example of mineral acids : HBr, HC1, HN03, H2S04. 

Mineral alkalies : Ammonia Potassium and Sodium Hydroxides. 

Organic Poisons: Volatile Organic Poisons, Alcohol, Acetanelid, Aniline 
and its derivatives, Antipyrine Phenacetine, etc. 

Benzine and its derivaties, including Carbolic Acid, Creosote, Picric Acid, 
Chloral Chloroform Spartine, HCN. 

Alkaloids: Aconitine, Apomophine, Morphine, Strychnine, Cocaine. 

Example of Bacteria Poisons: Food poisons, Ptomaines; Septic poisons. 
Toxins. 

Organic Acid Examples : Oxalic Meconic, Oxalic. 

An anitdote is a substance capable of counteracting the effects of a poison.. 

A Physiological Antidote is one which produces systemic effects contrary to 
the poison. It acts directly on the functions of the body opposite to the poison. 
Ex., Atropine is the physiological antidote for Morphine and Opium. 

Artificial Respiration is raising and lowering the arms over the head 18 
times a minute. 

A Chemical Antidote is one which acts directly upon the poison by uniting 
with it and forming an insoluble compound or destroying it and rendering it 
harmless. Example, oils, soaps, acids, egg, etc. 

A Mechanical Antidote is one which removes the poison without changing 
it, or coats the stomach so the poison cannot reach it. Use of stomach pump. 

Emetics are agents which produce vomiting. They are divided into two 
classes. Local emetics produce their effect by the irritation of the end organs 
of the gastric nerve. Systemic or general emetics produce their effect through 
the medium of the circulation. The emetic action is due to the direct stimu¬ 
lation and irritation of the vomiting center of the medulla. 

The hypodermic dose is half that by the mouth ; the rectal or vaginal, twice 
that by the mouth. 









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